Jaguars vs. Titans: Establishing the run early, other keys to victory in the finale

1. The Jaguars must unleash Travon Walker and Josh Allen, rattle Ryan Tannehill

Ryan Tannehill was benched earlier this year in favor of rookie Will Levis, who's dealing with a foot injury. Levis got hurt when he was sacked in Week 18. Although he was pushing to play in the finale, Tennessee already announced Tannehill will start. This could be his last game with the Titans, as he's set to become a free agent in 2024.

One of the reasons the Titans will most likely move on from Tannehill — and drafted Levis in hopes of being his heir apparent — is that injuries have affected his production the past two seasons. With the season on the line, pressuring him and forcing him into making mistakes will be key.

Working in the Jaguars' favor is that the Titans' offensive line isn't in great shape entering the game. Dillon Radunz is having a banner year at right tackle but the rest of the group has been inconsistent throughout the season. In particular, left tackle Andre Dillard has not lived up to expectations after signing a three-year deal worth $30 million in the offseason. Outside linebacker Josh Allen will line up against him often, giving him a favorable matchup for the bout.

Radunz will go against Travon Walker, who's coming off a two-sack outing against the Panthers. He'll need to once again come through and set the edge. Walker had one of the best games of his rookie season against the Titans lining up in a three-point stance. Jacksonville could once again have him play with his hand on the ground.

The fact that Derrick Henry is no longer the dominant workhorse he was as recently as a couple years ago should help the Jaguars focus on rushing the passer and defending the heat.

Now, the Jaguars have had several favorable matchups early in the season but couldn't take advantage of them. They cannot afford to drop the ball on this one.

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