NASHVILLE, Tenn. --Rookie running back Jamie Harper could see extending playing time – and possibly even start – when the Titans take on the St. Louis Rams tonight at 7 p.m. (CT).
With Chris Johnson continuing to hold out and backup Javon Ringer nursing a hip pointer injury, Harper, a fourth-round pick in April's draft, may have the opportunity to showcase himself early and often.
Harper led all Titans rushers last week with 27 yards on eight attempts and scored on a 2-yard run.
"Jamie has done a very nice job for a rookie," Palmer said. "He's exceeded my expectations. We're going to have to find some plays for him when Chris gets back in here because he's done so well."
At 5-11, 233 pounds, Harper offers the Titans a bigger-style back. He told reporters earlier this week what he brings to the table.
"Running the ball downhill and instincts are two of my strengths," he said "I'm probably my own worst critic. I have a lot of things I want to work on, but I plan on continuing to improve each week."
He'll likely get that chance tonight against the Rams.
STARTERS PLAYING LONGER: Head coach Mike Munchak said the staff is likely to play Tennessee's starters deeper into tonight's game. Some starters played into the second quarter of the opener because they were continuing an offensive drive that began in the fourth quarter.
Munchak said starters will ideally see 25 to 30 plays, and the team needs to work on a "two-minute drive one way or the other."
