Titans vs. Falcons: When the Falcons Have the Ball

The Falcons like to run their offense through Michael Turner. They will try to give him a bunch of carries early in the game to set up some play-action plays down the field. The key for the Titans will be to stop Turner with the front seven. If they have to commit an extra defender to stopping Turner it will be trouble.

August made the point on MCM Radio that we will probably see a lot of defensive alignments that include Jurrell Casey and Shaun Smith at defensive tackle. The Titans will need the beef up front to slow down Turner.

Tony Gonzalez is easily the player I am the most afraid of in this game. The middle of the field wasn't wide open last week against the Panthers, but that was the first time in a year and a half. Barrett Ruud also wasn't out there. He probably will be tomorrow. Keeping Gonzalez from picking up those 3rd and 8s is going to be a huge factor in the game.

The Titans catch a break with Julio Jones not being able to go in this one. He is a much bigger threat than Harry Douglas. The Falcons still have Roddy White, one of the best receivers in the game, but I feel good about our secondary against one receiver.

Third down percentage will tell the story for the Titans in this one. If they are good on third down they will win the game.