The Titans probably need to win their final three games to make the playoffs. They may have to win at least one of those games with rookie quarterback Jake Locker at the helm.
Jim Wyatt of the Tennessean reports that Matt Hasselbeck’s calf injury isn’t too serious, but early signs indicate it will be a stretch for Hasselbeck to return this week against the Colts.
Kerry Collins apparently had a similar injury last year for the Titans and missed two games. The Titans are “confident” Locker can lead the team.
I watched the Titans-Saints game closely. Locker’s performance was a mixed bag, but he made some plays running the ball that Hasselbeck simply couldn’t make. The Titans offense didn’t look particularly worse with Locker behind center, just different.
We think Hasselbeck has done an outstanding job getting the Titans to seven wins. His signing has worked out perfectly for the team. Having Locker available off the bench after a year of learning is an ideal situation for the team.
The team’s running back depth may have also taken a hit. Wyatt says backup running back Javon Ringer broke his hand and likely will miss the rest of the season. More X-rays will be taken Sunday.