The Titans aim to pull the weekend upset by protecting Cam Ward and leaning on a run-first game plan to keep the rookie upright in a tough matchup with the Rams. The strategy hinges on easier third downs through an actual established run game, solid hands on the drops, and disciplined play-calling to avoid self-inflicted mistakes. Tennessee must pressure Matthew Stafford, lean on Jeffrey Simmons’ interior dominance, and deploy timely blitzes to disrupt the pocket, hoping the Rams’ injuries along the interior line open a path to victory.

Fantasy bettors should look to Ward as a contrarian upgrade if the Titans lean on play-action and short throws, while Simmons is the clear DFS defensive pillar with a high-pressure ceiling. Rams pass-catchers like Nakua figure to draw volume against a Titans defense that needs to generate pressure, and the Titans must avoid penalties that steal momentum late in the game. The vibe is risky but intriguing for a home underdog with a high-leverage path to victory.

Xavier Restrepo and James Proche were cut by Tennessee, signaling a shift toward youth and waiver-wire gambits as the Titans chase cover for return duties and depth. The club kept a tight WR group, while budgeting 11 offensive linemen and five interior defensive linemen, hinting at a mid- to long-term plan that relies on waiver claims and practice-squad gymnastics. The host zeros in on waiver targets like Audric Estime and Damen Martinez, Trey Palmer’s return potential, and adds Greg Dolich as a rotational tight end option, all framed around a backfield that needs insurance with Taj Spears’ IR stint.

Fantasy-focused takeaway centers on the Titans' running back and return-game depth: Estime or Martinez could slide into early-work roles, while Palmer offers return-propensity and size that could unlock extra upside in kick-returns. The discussion also teases a possible practice-squad shuffle that could drop a younger blocker or receiver back to safety if someone else is claimed off waivers, keeping the fantasy door ajar for late-summer moves.