3 most favorable matchups for the Cardinals in Week 1 vs. the Titans
By Sion Fawkes
Kyler Murray vs. Titans pass rush
Kyler Murray may be the NFL’s most dynamic scrambling quarterback next to Lamar Jackson. Unlike Jackson though, Murray’s mid-to-deep throw accuracy has improved over his first two seasons in the league. And in Week 1, he’s facing one of the NFL’s weakest pass-rush units.
In 2020, the Titans logged just 19 sacks, which ranked 30th in the league. Sure, they signed Bud Dupree to remedy the issue, but Dupree is also coming off a torn ACL. We must also remember that Dupree had a lot of opportunities with the Pittsburgh Steelers (his former team) thanks to T.J. Watt’s presence. There are many question marks surrounding him and whether he will improve the team’s pass rush.
Before an injured AC joint affected his play later in the 2020 season, Murray was on pace to throw for over 4,000 yards. And despite the injury and missing most of the Week 17 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams, he still almost accomplished the feat. He also rushed for over 800 yards.
Given Murray’s ability to make things happen with both his arm and legs, compounded with a weak Tennessee defense, gives the Cardinals offense a chance to light up the scoreboard on Sunday. But it’s not just the offense that the Titans need to worry about.