The Tennessee Titans have a tough task ahead of them, going on the road on a short week into a hostile environment. Add in the fact it will be a primetime game against the Pittsburgh Steelers and it easily becomes one of the tougher games of the year regardless of the Steelers' talent.
Now, the test will get even more difficult as the Titans will have to fight for a victory without multiple starters. The Titans ruled out four players on Wednesday including quarterback Ryan Tannehill, cornerback Roger McCreary, right tackle Chris Hubbard and safety Mike Brown.
The Titans may not miss Tannehill if Will Levis keeps up his play, but McCreary and Hubbard will be losses. McCreary will miss his second game with a hamstring injury and his replacement in Week 8, rookie Eric Garror, was targeted often by the Falcons for success. Hubbard's absence will bring the previously-benched Andre Dillard back into the starting five on the offensive line.
Outside of the confirmed absences, the biggest cause for concern could be for wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. Hopkins is listed as questionable with a toe injury and was downgraded from limited early in the week to a non-participant on Wednesday.
Hopkins is an experienced veteran that typically finds a way to play, but his status is certainly something to watch as we get closer to kickoff. Not having Hopkins would be a major loss for the Titans, but even more for Levis.
Safety Mike Brown was added to the "Designated to Return" list this week meaning he began his 21-day window to practice with the team before being activated off injured reserve. Despite being a full participant all week Brown was still ruled out and not added to the active roster.
The Titans likely didn't want to have to cut someone to open up a roster spot on a short week. Look for Brown to be activated off injured reserve next week in preparation for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
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