Maurice Hurst
It’s no coincidence that all the defensive x-factors are linemen. As previously mentioned, the Titans have a prolific rushing attack and an offensive line that is weak in pass protection. This game will be won in the trenches, so the Silver and Black need their big guys to rise to the occasion.
After what was a relatively quiet start to the season, Hurst has played his best ball as of late. In three of the last four games, he has posted some of the highest PFF grades of his career and is starting to get more pressure on the quarterback. With how porous Tennessee’s offensive line is, the Michigan alum should continue this trend.
The Titans starting interior offensive linemen: Ben Jones, Rodger Saffold, and Nate Davis; have allowed a combined 15 sacks on the year. Granted, Derrick Henry isn’t putting up those ridiculous numbers without help up front, so Tennessee’s offensive line is not completely inept and is significantly better in run-blocking. Getting pressure shouldn’t be too much of an issue for Hurst and if he can hold his own against the run, the defensive lineman could put together a career day.