In the last three games, the Colts have failed to address their weakness in stopping the run. Losing the tenacity and leadership of LB Cornelius Bennett for the game against the Titans due to injury will not help matters. Bertrand Berry will step into the middle linebacker position, hoping to prevent Eddie George from running effectively.

This task does not fall on Berry's shoulders alone, though. The defense as a whole must be ready to make Tennessee earn every yard they try to gain on the ground. The Titans use the bulldozing runs of George to set up their passing attack. The Colts, who give up an average of 107.2 yards on the ground, do not have to stop George completely (though it wouldn't hurt!). They only have to contain him. If the defense can prevent long runs and make George gain his 100 yards 2 or 3 yards per carry, it will force the Titans to turn to their mobile quarterback Steve McNair to provide offensive spark.

Coming off a sub-par performance versus the Bills last week, McNair is an athletic QB who thrives on his ability to scramble away from pressure and create plays in the open field. In a best case scenario for the Colts, they will force McNair to sit back in the pocket and throw to move the chains. Don't be surprised if the Titans test the corners early with deep routes off play-action to try to grab an early lead to silence the crowd.

While many will focus on the absence of Bennett in the linebacking corps, the key matchups will be fought by the defensive line. If the defensive line as a whole is able to fill the running lanes and provide pass pressure when necessary, Colt linebackers will find it easier to remain disciplined and maintain their assignments. It is possible for Colt rookie LB Mike Peterson to steal some of the limelight from his Titan adversary, Jevon Kearse. Peterson leads the team in tackles (105) and has played with surprising maturity and intensity. His greatest test to date will come this Sunday. With the crowd behind them, the Colts defense will have a chance to dictate the tempo of the game and the play selection of the Titans.

Advantage: Titans

Next Opponent
AFC Divisional Playoff Game: Tennessee Titans
01/16/2000

when: 4:05 EST
where: RCA Dome
TV: CBS

Archive:
Issue #1
Issue #2
Issue #3
Issue #4

Matchups:
Offense
Defense
Special Teams

1999 Schedule