Mariota vows to 'do everything in my power' to play vs. Colts
After suffering a stinger in the first half of the Tennessee Titans' Week 16 contest, Marcus Mariota's status for Week 17's win-and-you're-in game against the Indianapolis Colts remains uncertain. On Wednesday, the 25-year-old went into detail about his nerve injury and said he'll "do everything in my power" to ensure he's under center Sunday with a playoff spot on the line.
"It was one of those deals where it kind of crunched, and basically sent my whole right side numb and tingly," Mariota said on 104.5 FM, according to Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site. "It was one of those things, man, and it's unfortunate because nerves are weird, they take time. But again, I am fighting and I am going to do my best to be out there."
Mariota wasn't able to practice Wednesday, but head coach Mike Vrabel said the quarterback could still play against the Colts even if he misses more practices this week.
If Mariota can't suit up, the Titans will turn to Blaine Gabbert, who took over against the Washington Redskins in Week 16 and led the team to a 25-16 victory by throwing for 101 yards and a touchdown on 11 attempts.
Tennessee can not only clinch a wild-card spot with a win over Indy, but it can also secure the AFC South with a win and a Houston Texans loss. Furthermore, if the New England Patriots and Baltimore Ravens also suffer shock defeats, the Titans will improbably earn a first-round bye.
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