In what has been a challenging start to their 2024 NFL campaign, the Tennessee Titans find themselves struggling at 0-3, with mounting issues on both sides of the ball. The latest defeat came at the hands of the Green Bay Packers, who outperformed the Titans with a decisive 30-14 victory.
Titans' Offensive Woes
Quarterback Will Levis showed moments of promise, completing 26 of 34 passes for 260 yards along with two touchdowns. However, his performance was marred by two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown, and eight sacks. The Titans' offensive line's inability to protect their quarterback has become a glaring issue. These mistakes have been costly, contributing heavily to their lackluster start this season.
Levis currently ranks second in the league for interceptions and tops the NFL in turnovers with three fumbles and five interceptions. This alarming statistic underscores the pressing need for improvement in decision-making and ball security.
Defensive Concerns
The Titans' defense hasn't fared much better, conceding 378 total yards against the Packers, including 188 rushing yards. This porous defense has left the Titans struggling to stay competitive in their matchups thus far. Tennessee's defense has been unable to contain opposing offenses, allowing critical yards and scores that swing momentum to their adversaries.
Brian Callahan, the Titans' head coach, did not mince words about the team's collective struggles. "We've not played a complete game in any phase at any point yet," Callahan said candidly. This blunt assessment captures the widespread issues that the team faces.
Close Calls in Weeks 1 and 2
The Titans have been in tight games during the first two weeks, losing 24-17 to both the Chicago Bears and the New York Jets. These narrow defeats highlight the team's potential to compete at a higher level but also their failure to capitalize on key moments.
"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," Callahan emphasized. His call to action resonates with a team desperately searching for answers.
Changes and Challenges
The offseason saw significant changes for the Titans, including the departure of veteran Ryan Tannehill, who is currently navigating free agency in search of a new team. In his place, the Titans signed Mason Rudolph, who boasts a career record of 8-4-1 as a starter with 19 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Yet, it appears the integration of new talent has not translated into immediate success.
"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," Callahan commented on Levis's performance. The focus on reducing turnovers is imperative for the team moving forward.
Looking Ahead
The road ahead does not get easier for the Titans as they gear up to face the Miami Dolphins, who stand at 1-2. With pressing issues to address on both sides of the ball, the Titans are under pressure to turn their season around.
"We have to play better around him," Callahan noted, signaling a collective responsibility for the team's turnaround. The coming weeks will test the resilience and adaptability of this Tennessee squad as they strive to overcome their early-season struggles.
The Titans are a team in search of identity and consistency, and how they respond to this adversity will define their 2024 season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Tennessee attempts to claw its way back into contention.