Chris Johnson Benched by Tennessee Titans at Perfect Time for Playoff Push

The Tennessee Titans beat up the Indianapolis Colts today without much help from running back Chris Johnson.

The "superstar" was healthy but was replaced by Javon Ringer for much of the second half.

Ringer took nearly every snap in the fourth quarter as the Titans ground out their win over the Colts. He was not only more productive in the backfield, but he was also the team's leading receiver.

Ringer's 102 all-purpose yards on 19 touches were much better than Johnson's 51 total yards on 17 touches.

There is a good chance this isn't a short-term decision, either.

Head coach Mike Munchack, according to Rotoworld's report, said that the Titans will operate with a running back by committee moving forward.

Johnson has been a complete disappointment this season after signing his monster contract this summer.

The fourth-year pro was given $30 million guaranteed on a six-year, $55.26 million contract.

That looks like a huge waste of money as of right now.

Johnson is averaging an abysmal 2.9 yards per carry on the season and has scored only one touchdown.

Ringer, in comparison, hasn't been much better averaging only three yards per carry on 21 rushes. 

That isn't going to win many football games but the Titans need a change from Johnson.

The team is now 4-3 on the season but is the league's worst rushing unit averaging 64 yards per game on the year.

Next week they'll take on the Cincinnati Bengals at home before two straight games on the road.

Tennessee has to be able to run the football if they want to keep winning games.

The back stretch of their schedule includes games against six potential playoff teams: Cincinnati, Atlanta, Tampa Bay, Buffalo, New Orleans and Houston.

Not being able to run the football will destroy this team's chances at the postseason.

Something had to be done, and making a switch in the backfield now was the only option.

Johnson will still get touches, but he's no longer the top option for this football team.

The Titans hope this move not only helps them, but helps Johnson get his act together.