FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- Each week we will select two players on the New York Jets -- one on offense, one on defense -- who figure to play a key role in the upcoming game. The Jets face the Tennessee Titans (2-11) Sunday at LP Stadium.
Chris Johnson, running back: Everybody runs it against the Titans, who have allowed a league-high 1,840 rushing yards -- including 782 after contact. Johnson, hitting his stride in recent weeks, should be highly motivated, facing his former team. A lot of emotions will be wrapped into this game for him. He and Eddie George are regarded as the two best running backs in Titans' history, but the marriage ended bitterly last April. Johnson was furious the Titans took so long to cut him, hurting his market value. Considering the Jets' renewed emphasis on the running game, this could be a huge day for Johnson, who will get plenty of chances to make his former employer look bad.
Sheldon Richardson, defensive tackle: Richardson is hot, the Titans are not. Their injury-plagued offensive line, with backups Will Svitek and Byron Stingily starting at tackle, allowed eight sacks last week to the New York Giants, resulting in a season-ending shoulder injury for rookie quarterback Zach Mettenberger. Jake Locker is more mobile than Mettenberger, but the Jets still should be able to crank up the heat. Richardson is coming off a career game (three sacks), and he will have help if Muhammad Wilkerson returns from a turf-toe injury. Svitek, who surrendered three sacks last week, is awful in pass protection. The Titans are hoping No. 1 pick Taylor Lewan can return.
