I’ve exchanged questions and answers with Rich Campbell, who writes for MVN’s Chargers Confidential, regarding Tennessee’s game at San Diego this Sunday. I published my questions and Rich’s answers earlier today. Now it’s time for Rich’s questions and my answers.
Chargers Confidential: Although the franchise has a lot of playoff experience, Tennessee has a lot of turnover since the last Super Bowl run. Physically, the biggest problem for either team is injuries. That’s normal by this point. What is the biggest psychological problem for the Titans?
Total Titans: The defense is playing well. That shouldn’t be a problem, but it’s a different story on the other side of the ball. I have to wonder a little how the offense feels. They’ve lost two of their top three receivers this week and Vince Young is hurt. An offense with young players at most positions may be lacking some confidence.
CC: With Rivers getting more comfortable throwing to Chambers, and Gates presenting his usual matchup problems, how will the Titans stop the passing game of the Bolts, which would allow them to stack the box for L.T.?
TT: I’d be surprised to see many changes since the teams met four weeks ago. I believe the Titans will rely primarily on their corners to play man-to-man and take their chances (if Rey Hill has to play, look for some more zone). Trying to prevent any long gains by L.T. has to be their first priority.
CC: Vince Young did not have his best game as a pro last time, and the Chargers have Luis Castillo back to play the run. How will the Titans attack the speedy defense of San Diego?
TT: Once again, I don’t see a lot of changes. Norm Chow likes to mix things up on the first drive but after that it will probably be Fishball again. Pound the rock and try to keep the game close, hoping to win with defense and a field goal in the fourth quarter.
CC: Last game turned extremely physical after some heavy trash talk and taunting. It still surprises me that other teams have not learned that mimicking Merriman’s Lights Out dance does nothing but remind the Chargers of the Patriots display in the playoffs and fire them up. Do you see the players controlling their emotions this time, or does this devolve into Raider-style antics on both sides again?
TT: What a delightful way of putting it! Raider-style antics, indeed! I’m sure some of the Titans veterans have mentioned that this week when they’ve talked to the younger players about this game. One thing is for sure, it will be an emotional game. Whether some of the younger guys will control theirs remains to be seen.
Thanks to Rich for doing this. Titans fans, for more information and opinion from the other side’s point of view, check out what Rich has to say on MVN’s Chargers Confidential.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
