Carnell Tate, Tyjae Spears Out: Who Breaks Out for Titans Without Them in Week 8?
Titans lose two playmakers
Tennessee will travel to face Cincinnati in Week 8 without Carnell Tate and Tyjae Spears. Tate is out with a shoulder issue, while Spears is sidelined by a knee problem.
The Titans are also dealing with the loss of their best defender after trading Jeffery Simmons. The article describes Cincinnati as having one of the league’s best offenses, making the absences a challenge for Tennessee.
Carter could get more work
Michael Carter was called up in Week 7 after Spears and rookie Nick Singleton were unavailable. He gained seven yards on three carries and added seven yards on his lone target.
Robert Saleh praised Carter’s three-down abilities, which may give him an advantage over Singleton. Tony Pollard is expected to remain the workhorse, but Carter could receive more chances, particularly as a short-pass option, with Spears out.
Ayomanor may see targets rise
Elic Ayomanor could benefit from Tate’s absence. In Week 7 against the Cleveland Browns, he was targeted seven times, catching three passes for 44 yards. Wan'Dale Robinson had six targets and four catches in that game, but finished with seven yards. Across the previous two weeks, he recorded seven receptions for 29 yards and had only two games this season with at least 50 receiving yards.
Cam Ward and Ayomanor have a connection dating to their rookie campaign. Although Ward’s preference shifted toward Tate to some degree, Ayomanor has overtaken Calvin Ridley and earned more playing time.
Key points
- Carnell Tate and Tyjae Spears are out for the Titans’ Week 8 game against Cincinnati.
- Michael Carter could get additional snaps and short-pass opportunities behind Tony Pollard.
- Elic Ayomanor may draw more targets after receiving seven against Cleveland in Week 7.