David Chao, MD
2 min read • November 02, 2023
Posted in
The upcoming matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Tennessee Titans on Thursday Night Football promises to be a highly physical encounter.
Under the leadership of Coach Mike Tomlin, the Steelers have maintained a reputation for being a physically robust team. However, the team's current slew of injuries raises questions about their ability to sustain that level of play.
Coached by Mike Vrabel, the Titans have fiercely contended in every game this season. With a new starting quarterback, the game will serve as a platform to observe if this change alters their team identity and approach.
Steelers starting quarterback Kenny Pickett suffered a rib cartilage injury, when the body weight of the Jaguars defender landed on top of him just before halftime last week. He did not return but is likely opting for a rib block injection to play through the injury against the Titans.
Diontae Johnson is absent from the Steelers' injury report this week and is anticipated to play without restrictions against the Titans. Throughout the season, he has been contending with a nagging hamstring injury, which carries a risk of reaggravation. However, he is expected to complete the game without hindrance.
Defensive tackle Cam Heyward is expected to play in only his second game this season after missing the team’s previous seven weeks with a groin injury. His snaps should be limited in his first game back.
Hopkins recently delivered his standout performance of the year, securing three touchdowns in rookie quarterback Will Levis' inaugural NFL game. However, Hopkins appeared on the injury report this week due to a toe injury. Despite this, it is anticipated that Hopkins will not be significantly affected by the injury in the upcoming game against the Steelers.
The Titans' primary running back, Derrick Henry, contended with a hamstring injury last week. However, he has been removed from the team's injury report as of Wednesday, indicating he is anticipated to be fully available. Tyjae Spears is likely to step in to provide relief for Henry on specific downs.
Tennessee Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill sustained a right high ankle sprain in Week 6, leading to his expected absence for the third consecutive week. Rookie Will Levis made a notable impact by throwing four touchdowns last week, sparking discussions that Tannehill's tenure as an NFL starting quarterback might be in question.
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Written by David Chao, MD
