X

    Marcus Mariota: I'll 'Do Everything in My Power' to Play vs. Colts with Injury

    Timothy Rapp@@TRappaRTFeatured ColumnistDecember 26, 2018

    NASHVILLE, TN - DECEMBER 22: Marcus Mariota #8 of the Tennessee Titans rests on one knee after a hard tackle during a game against the Washington Redskins at Nissan Stadium on December 22, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Titans defeated the Redskins 25-16. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
    Wesley Hitt/Getty Images

    Injured Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota says he's trying to return for Sunday's crucial matchup against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday with a postseason berth on the line.

    "Just taking it day to day," he said on 104.5-FM's Wake Up Zone on Wednesday, per Jim Wyatt of TitansOnline.com. "I am doing my best, [trying] to get back. That's all I can do. I'll do everything in my power to see if I can go. Again, it is just taking it one day at a time."

    Mariota, 25, suffered a stinger against Washington on Saturday, putting his status in jeopardy for this Sunday's showdown with the Colts. In his stead, backup Blaine Gabbert led Tennessee to a 25-16 win.

    "It was one of those deals where it kind of crunched and basically sent my whole right side numb and tingly," Mariota said. "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."

    Having Mariota back for Sunday's AFC South clash would be vital. With a win, Tennessee would earn the AFC's final playoff berth. And with a win and a Houston Texans loss against the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Titans would win the division with a superior divisional record.

    With a loss, however, Tennessee's season is over.

    Marcus Mariota: I'll 'Do Everything in My Power' to Play vs. Colts with Injury
    Video Play Button
    ✨ Watch more top videos, highlights, and B/R original content Right Arrow Icon

    Mariota has had a solid if unspectacular season, throwing for 2,528 yards, 11 touchdowns and eight interceptions in 14 games, completing a career-high 68.9 percent of his passes. He's also rushed for 357 yards and another two scores.

    Injuries have remained an issue for Mariota, however, as Gabbert has been cast into relief duty in five games this season (Mariota came off the bench after Gabbert was concussed against the Jaguars in September).

    Gabbert has been solid enough when called upon to play, but the Titans lose the dual-threat dimension that Mariota offers with his backup on the field.

    With the season on the line, Mariota's presence would be key.