The Tennessee Titans (1-4) have a winnable game against the Las Vegas Raiders (1-4) in Sunday’s Week 6 matchup. The Titans claimed their first victory of the season last weekend, executing an unlikely come-from-behind scenario over the Arizona Cardinals. Meanwhile the Raiders lost 40-6 to the Indianapolis Colts and are trending in the wrong direction, on an active four-game skid.
We’ve identified five underrated Titans who could make an impact.
Chimere Dike, WR/KR/PR
Chimere Dike out-snapped Tyler Lockett 33-17 at wide receiver
last weekend. That’s the first time that’s happened. With Lockett’s influence on offense obviously decreasing, the Titans’ first-year wideout could continue benefiting. Dike also leads the NFL in kickoff return yards (666) by a considerable margin.
Cedric Gray, LB
Cedric Gray is tied for third in the NFL in tackles (48). He’s accumulated an unfathomable 29 takedowns across the previous two weeks. Brian Callahan praised his ascension earlier this week. Gray is developing into an incredibly legitimate linebacker right before our eyes. He’ll need to be decisive and aggressive against Ashton Jeanty this weekend.
Gunnar Helm, TE
Gunnar Helm recorded four receptions on five targets for 34 yards against the Cardinals in Week 5. Those marked career-highs across the board. Helm made several catches on Tennessee’s final three scoring drives, including a nifty 19-yard toe-tapper down to the one-yard line. Earlier this week, offensive coordinator Nick Holz said he deserves more targets in the passing game.
Jihad Ward, EDGE
Veteran defensive end Jihad Ward had a season-high four pressures versus the Cardinals. He’s tied with Arden Key for the position lead (9) in that category. Ward has honestly been Tennessee’s most impactful EDGE rusher on a snap-by-snap basis. His Pro Football Focus pass-rushing grade (66.0) is six points higher than second-best (Dre’Mont Jones, 60.0).
Kevin Winston Jr., S
Rookie safety Kevin Winston Jr. made his debut in Week 5. The former Penn State standout was limited to playing special teams. The Titans are easing him into the lineup. Winston Jr. earned praise from Callahan and John Fassel. It may be premature to expect him to play on defense this weekend, but it’s within the realm of possibility, based on quotes from the coaching staff.