Eye on the Enemy: Can the Eagles stop the Titans run game in week 13?

On Sunday, when the Philadelphia Eagles get set to face Tennessee, they will do so with the understanding that the toughest and most physical matchup of the season awaits them. At 10-1, the Eagles can inch ever so closer to a playoff berth and the number one seed.

There isn’t a mentally tougher football team in the NFL than the Tennessee Titans. Over the last few seasons, the Titans have battled difficult injuries, tough front-office decisions and a dominant conference to sit at the table of the NFL’s best.

For Tennessee, the AFC South division seems like a lock, but the closer they get to the playoffs, the more important seeding will matter. We have everything you need to know about Philadelphia’s toughest opponent yet.

Tennessee Titans (7-4)

Last Game: 20-16 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals

Offensive Ranking: 29th

Defensive Ranking: 12th

Head-to-Head Matchup: Philadelphia leads the all-time series 7-5 (Tennessee is 5-1 since moving)

Tennessee Titans Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Mike Vrabel

Offensive Coordinator: Todd Downing

Defensive Coordinator: Shane Bowen

Special Teams Coordinator: Craig Aukerman

Offense

Derrick Henry. Done.

Jokes aside, Derrick Henry is the main cog of the Titans’ offense. Their offensive line isn’t spectacular, their receivers aren’t world-beaters and Ryan Tannehill is a serviceable, but limited quarterback. If the Eagles can stop Henry, they stop the Titans’ offense.

Of course, it’s easier to say than do in the NFL. The Eagles’ rush defense is among the worst in football with a particular weakness for power backs…yikes.

Outside of Henry, the Titans own one of the worst pass-blocking OL groups and have struggled all year to push the ball downfield. If the Eagles press at the line and cover the middle of the field, there should be plays for them to win.

Defense

Tennessee’s defense is full of really nice players who don’t have much statistical dominance. The Titans rank 31st against the pass and 21st in total yards. Their strength though is in points allowed (8th) and rushing (3rd). Tennessee is one of the stingiest in the front seven and in the red zone. Sunday afternoon will be another important step for Jalen Hurts and the passing offense. If they can move the ball down the field as they should, Philadelphia’s offense should be able to move consistently downfield.