Johnathan Hankins
The Titans offense is predicated around a strong running game. As a team, they average 125.4 rushing yards per game and running back Derrek Henry ranks third in both yards and touchdowns with 1,140 and 11. Stopping or slowing down the big back is the key to defending Tennessee, which is where Hankins comes in.
Throughout his career, the defensive lineman has been a stout run defender and this season is no different. His six tackles for loss are tied for the 11th most among defensive tackles and his 41 total tackles crack the top 10. Not only will Hankins’ production come in handy this week but also, his size will help Oakland’s defense.
At 6’3″ and 247 pounds, Henry is an absolute hoss and very difficult to bring down. The bulldozer looks to run defenders over and has managed to force 39 missed tackles on the year. Luckily for the Silver and Black, Hankins stands at 6’3″ 340 pounds so there is at least one player on the roster that Henry won’t be able to lower his shoulder against.
Of course, stopping the Titans ground and pound offense doesn’t completely fall on the massive lineman’s shoulders, but he will certainly play a large role (no pun intended).