Tennessee Titans

Sankey shines in Tennessee's win over St. Louis

Published Aug. 24, 2015 11:59 a.m. ET

foxsports

A week after a lackluster performance in the Tennessee Titans' preseason opener against the Atlanta Falcons, running back Bishop Sankey showed why he sits atop the depth chart with a strong performance in the team's 27-14 preseason win over the St. Louis Rams Monday night.

Sankey ran six times for 45 yards, including runs of 18 and 19 yards. Last week against the Falcons, the second-year back ran for just 15 yards on eight carries.

“I hit the hole hard, and that is what I was trying to do – hit the hole and not hesitate,’’ Sankey said, per the team's official website. “The holes were there in practice, and (running backs) coach (Sylvester) Croom emphasized us hitting the hole hard. Every crease I had I was trying to hit it downhill and pick up as many yards as I can.”

A second-round pick in 2014, Sankey's improved play came behind a revamped Tennessee offensive line that featured Byron Bell starting at left guard in place of Andy Levitre and rookie Jeremiah Poutasi starting at right tackle.

“I think he ran hard. I think he was downhill, not a lot of dancing,’’ Bell said of Sankey's performance. “I think he was running with a purpose, and I think when you run with a purpose in this league you are going to get a lot of yards and I think he did that.”

Sankey led the team in rushing last season with 569 yards rushing, but both he and the team are looking for more production in his second season.

“It feels good to be able to put together some explosive runs and help the team out,’’ Sankey said. “It is definitely something I am looking to build on and I know other guys are looking to build on it as well.”

(h/t Tennessee Titans)