NFL Barometer: Rice on the Rebound?

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Jake Locker, QB, TEN - Despite a poor showing in the Titans' second preseason game against Tampa Bay, Locker was named the team's starting quarterback for the regular season opener this week. Over five appearances as a rookie in 2011, Locker carried a 4:0 TD:INT while going 34-for-66 for 542 yards (8.2 YPA) and gained 56 yards and a rushing score on eight carries. Even without Kenny Britt, the Titans possess an underrated group of pass-catching options and a premier running back in Chris Johnson. Further, Locker's combination of mobility and a strong arm could lead him to immediately become a useful QB2 and top-15 option at his position. With an early-season schedule that features New England, San Diego, Detroit, Houston and Minnesota, Locker could hit the ground running in his new gig and put up surprising numbers right out of the gate.

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