Troubled Titans: Struggles Continue in Early Season
After three weeks of the 2024 NFL season, the Tennessee Titans find themselves in a precarious position with an 0-3 record. Their latest defeat came at the hands of the Green Bay Packers, resulting in a disheartening 30-14 loss. This marks the third consecutive game where the Titans have fallen short, raising concerns among fans and analysts alike.
A Tough Outing for Will Levis
Quarterback Will Levis, the centerpiece of the Titans' offense, had a turbulent game against the Packers. While Levis showcased moments of brilliance by completing 26 of 34 passes for 260 yards and throwing two touchdowns, his performance was marred by critical mistakes. Levis threw two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. Additionally, he was sacked eight times, highlighting significant issues with the Titans' offensive line protection.
"Again, I'm not going to overreact to an interception. Those things happen. Guys throw picks. We just can't give it to the other team. We keep giving up points the other way. It's hard to overcome," remarked Brian Callahan, reflecting on the turnovers that have plagued the Titans' season thus far. Callahan's sentiments underline the frustration within the team and the challenges they must navigate to find their footing.
Defensive Woes
The struggles for the Titans are not limited to the offensive side of the ball. The defense has also been porous, conceding 378 total yards against the Packers. Of particular concern was their inability to contain Green Bay's rushing attack, allowing 188 rushing yards.
The trend of defensive lapses has been consistent through the first three weeks. In their Week 1 matchup, the Titans succumbed to a 24-17 loss against the Chicago Bears. The following week, they fell to the New York Jets by an identical scoreline, 24-17. These close games indicate that while the Titans have been competitive, key moments have slipped away from them.
Turnovers and Offensive Turmoil
Will Levis' issues with ball security extend beyond interceptions. He leads the NFL in turnovers with three fumbles and five interceptions, a statistical position no quarterback desires. Despite these struggles, Callahan emphasizes the need for a collective improvement around their quarterback, stating, "We have to play better around him."
The pressures on Levis have undoubtedly intensified with the departure of veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill, who left the Titans this offseason and is now navigating free agency in search of a new team. The absence of Tannehill's experience has left a void that the team is still grappling to fill.
New Faces, Same Challenges
In an attempt to bolster their quarterback room, the Titans brought in Mason Rudolph this offseason. However, Rudolph has yet to take significant snaps to make an impact. With a career record of 8-4-1 as a starter, including 19 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, Rudolph brings a mixed bag of experience but has been unable to shift the momentum in the Titans' favor thus far.
Looking Ahead to Miami
Next up for the Titans is a contest against the Miami Dolphins, who currently hold a 1-2 record. This matchup provides an opportunity for the Titans to potentially turn their season around. Nonetheless, it will require a comprehensive effort in all phases of the game, an aspect that Callahan pointedly acknowledges: "We've not played a complete game in any phase at any point yet."
With morale low and the pressure mounting, Callahan's message to his team is one of self-reliance and accountability. "We're capable of way better than what we've put on the field the last three weeks. No one is coming to save us, so we've got to figure it out," he said, encapsulating the gravity of the situation and the need for the Titans to self-correct quickly.
The early season woes have highlighted systemic issues that the Titans must address both offensively and defensively. As they prepare for their next challenge, only time will tell if they can muster the resolve to alter the course of their season. For now, the task at hand is clear: rectify the mistakes, elevate the play, and strive for that elusive first win.