The Tennessee Titans are off to a rocky start for the 2024 NFL season, with an 0-3 record that has left fans and analysts concerned. Their recent performance against the Green Bay Packers, resulting in a 30-14 loss, underscored the challenges facing the team.
Quarterback Will Levis put up decent numbers, completing 26 of 34 passes for 260 yards and throwing two touchdowns. Despite these efforts, Levis' performance was marred by two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. Adding to his woes, Levis was sacked eight times by the Packers' relentless defense.
Defensively, the Titans struggled to contain the Packers, allowing a total of 378 yards. The most glaring issue was their inability to stop the ground game, conceding a staggering 188 rushing yards. These defensive lapses were a significant factor in their defeat.
Earlier in the season, the Titans suffered back-to-back losses with identical scores of 24-17 to both the Chicago Bears in Week 1 and the New York Jets in Week 2. These close margins revealed both potential and pitfalls in the Titans’ gameplay.
Head coach Brian Callahan has been vocal about the team’s struggles, noting, "We've not played a complete game in any phase at any point yet." His frustration was evident as he continued, "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’s analysis has been blunt but accurate, highlighting the team's need for comprehensive improvement.
Will Levis ranks second in the league for interceptions, with a current total of five, and also leads the NFL in turnovers with three fumbles. Callahan addressed this issue, saying, "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." His statement underscores the severity of the turnovers and the challenges they pose for the team's success.
The offseason saw a significant shakeup in the Titans' roster. Mason Rudolph joined the squad, bringing with him a career record of 8-4-1 as a starter, with 19 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Meanwhile, Ryan Tannehill left the Titans and is currently navigating free agency in search of a new team. These changes have undoubtedly affected the team's dynamics and performance on the field.
"We have to play better around him," Callahan remarked, pointing to the need for the entire team to elevate their game to support their quarterback effectively. The Titans' offensive line and defensive unit both need to step up to address the issues that have plagued their season thus far.
The Titans' next challenge comes against the Miami Dolphins, who have a 1-2 record. This game will be crucial for the Titans as they seek to break their losing streak and turn their season around. With the Dolphins also struggling, it presents an opportunity for the Titans to regroup and showcase the potential that their coach believes they possess.
As the season progresses, the Titans must address their offensive line protection, reduce turnovers, and fortify their defense. Only then can they hope to reverse their fortunes and compete at a higher level.