Things were a little more optimistic for both the Titans and Chargers when they faced each other in 2018 (also in Week 7!). At 3-3 and 4-2 both teams had playoffs on their minds, but this time the two enter Sunday’s matchup at 2-4.

Much like Tennessee the Chargers offensive line has not been good this season; While the line has only allowed 12 sacks, they’ve also allowed 34 hits. That’s not bottom of the barrel (unfortunately the Titans are currently third last in this category with 47 hits allowed) but it’s also a situation where Tennessee’s pass rush can do some damage, especially with rookie Jeffery Simmons making his debut.

According to RotoWire, Titans like Kevin Byard (22.9 passer rating) and Logan Ryan (44.9) played fantastic against the Chargers career wise, while Malcolm Butler, Adoree Jackson, Kenny Vaccaro and Rashaan Evans have all allowed at least a 91.2 rating facing them. Vaccaro and Evans have been the most futile, both allowing at least a 117.0 rating.

Anyway, the Chargers have some significantly talented players on both sides of the ball, but which ones in particular do they need to take care of? I wrote on Philip Rivers last season so he needs no introduction, but in this case let’s look at three Chargers the Titans need to take care of.

Austin Ekeler (RB)

Currently leading every Charger in yards from scrimmage (611), Ekeler has been off to a fantastic start this season. His small height combined with his quickness, slippery pad level and receiving ability have made him tough to bring down and a fantasy owner’s dream. Even with Melvin Gordon back I expect Ekeler to see a lot of playing time.

Keenan Allen (WR)

Leading the Chargers in receiving yards once again (503), a healthy Keenan Allen has proven to have reached the potential he flashed in his injury plagued seasons prior to 2017. He’s a terrific route runner against press coverage, and even though he isn’t the fastest receiver his technique and refined route running still make him a top tier wide receiver and he’s especially dangerous as a slot receiver.

Joey Bosa (DE)

With a Titans offensive line and overall offense allowing many sacks/coverage sacks, we couldn’t leave a pass rusher out of this discussion. Joey Bosa has had 3 sacks and 7 QB hits thus far this season. Oddly enough the Chargers are tied for the 9th fewest sacks (12) and 9th fewest QB hits produced on defense (27). Against a Tennessee offense that has allowed a league leading 29 sacks however, we could see a huge day from Bosa, who has an impressive arsenal of pass rushing moves the team needs to keep track of.

Did we miss anyone? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below!