Titans Quarterback Marcus Mariota & Running Back DeMarco Murray
The Oakland Raiders and the Tennessee Titans have become rather familiar with one another over the last couple years. In the last two years, the Silver and Black have faced off against the Titans once in the preseason, and twice in the regular season. This Sunday they'll meet once again in Nashville, Tenn., at Nissan Stadium to start off the 2017 NFL regular season.
Throughout the week, members of both the Raiders and Titans have broken down what it'll be like to go toe-to-toe with a team they're not only acquainted with, but respect. Over the last year, each team has emerged as a promising young team in the AFC, and they'll clash Week 1.
As kickoff approaches, let's take a look at what the opponents are saying.
Head Coach Mike Mularkey
In their last two regular season meetings, the Titans have fallen to the Raiders, and Mularkey explained why.
"Caused some turnovers that cost us points, gave them points in their own territory. A lot of things that we did we need to correct. I think it's a good football team, a good defense. Very sound in all three phases. There's things we've got to do better on our own end before we worry about what they're doing."
He believes that Raiders running back Marshawn Lynch will be ready for this Sunday.
"I'm not going to be caught off guard with him. He's a very big, physical back. Obviously, he's rested. (laughter) So, we're well aware of what he can do. I don't think there will be any slow-down in his game. He's got that mentality that he can't be stopped and that's the biggest part of playing at this level. If you don't think they can stop you, it's hard to."
Quarterback Marcus Mariota
**The former Heisman Trophy winner explained what makes facing Raiders defensive end Khalil Mack so difficult.
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"He's a great player. Somebody that can really take the game over. Obviously, we have to make sure we know where he's at. He can really disrupt a game and take it over."
No. 8 talked about why he's been unable to conquer the Raiders defense.
"I think they change up their looks. They find ways to get double teams with certain guys. We'll find ways to combat that. I think we were expecting one thing and got another thing during those couple of games."
Running Back DeMarco Murray
From one good running back to another, Murray shared his respect for Lynch.
"He's a really good running back, a guy I have respect for. It's always fun to go head up with another great running back, so I'm excited and hopefully we can contain him. Like I said, hopefully he doesn't have too good of a game, but he's a hell of a player."
Murray is aware he'll be facing one of the best run-stoppers in the NFL Sunday in Mack.
"He's a good player, obviously he's a good player. We believe in our tackles as well, they do a great job. We know he's a dynamic player, and we just have to make sure we're prepared to handle his speed, size, and he's obviously strong."
