The Tennessee Titans physically man-handled the Indianapolis Colts in a big divisional win on Sunday. The Titans have now owned the Colts over the last few seasons, winning four straight games, four straight road games and five out of the last six total.
Ironically enough, one of the main contributing factors in the beatdown was a former Colt who was casted off, Denico Autry.
Autry put up 20 sacks in three seasons in Indianapolis, but the Colts decided not to retain him for some reason. As they say: one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.
The Titans gladly picked up Autry, bolstering their own pass-rush while weakening their biggest rivals’, and he immediately paid dividends.
Not only did Autry tie a career-high in sacks with nine in 2021, but he also helped unlock the Titans’ young stars, Jeffery Simmons and Harold Landry.
Autry can rush inside or outside and he is incredible at running pass-rush stunts, something the Titans defensive coaches love to utilize. He is truly a perfect fit, and even without Landry, Autry continues to show that versatility.
He may be one of the most underrated players in the NFL; Lord knows the Colts underrated him. On Sunday, he reminded the NFL and, more specifically the Colts, just how disruptive his blend of power, quickness and versatility can be.
So, as we always do, let’s step into the film room and see exactly how Denico Autry did it.
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Autry got the party started early in Indy. On the very first drive he got a strip sack and gave the Titans’ offense an early, easy scoring chance. Autry essentially gifted the Titans seven points out of the gate.
Not only does Autry create a huge play, but he does it against ALL-GALAXY guard Quenton Nelson (insert eye roll emoji).
Autry wins with quickness to the outside on Nelson and swims his inside arm under Nelson’s hands so he can’t regain leverage. Big-time play, and to do against the other team’s best player early sends a message.
And he hits a nasty fadeaway as well!
AP Photo/Adrian Kraus
On the last play, Autry made an impact from rushing inside; we see that here as well, except this time, rather than quickness, Autry uses his power, driving the guard back towards Matt Ryan.
This is a critical red zone play and honestly, Michael Pittman is open. Autry doesn’t get a sack, but the pressure affects Ryan’s throw and it’s just a touch too tall for Pittman to get both feet in.
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