The Tennessee Titans' 2024 NFL season has been nothing short of a challenging uphill battle. With a 0-3 start, the team faces an uncertain future and must quickly rectify their missteps to salvage their season. Their latest defeat, a 30-14 loss to the Green Bay Packers, showcased several areas where the Titans need to improve.
A Struggling Offense
Quarterback Will Levis displayed mixed results in the recent game, completing 26 of 34 passes for 260 yards and tossing two touchdowns. However, Levis's performance was marred by two interceptions, one of which was devastatingly returned for a touchdown. Adding to the offense's woes, Levis was sacked a staggering eight times by the Packers' relentless defense.
"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," said head coach Brian Callahan, defending his quarterback's struggles while stressing the need for the team to support Levis better.
Levis's turnovers have been a critical issue, as he currently leads the NFL in turnovers with three fumbles and five interceptions. His interceptions alone place him second-most in the league, underscoring the need for better decision-making and protection from his offensive line.
Defensive Woes
The Titans' defense has also struggled significantly. In the game against the Packers, they conceded 378 total yards, with an alarming 188 of those yards coming from the ground game. This porous run defense has been a recurring theme, contributing to their inability to halt opposing offenses effectively.
The defense's struggles were evident from the very start of the season. In Week 1, the Titans fell to the Chicago Bears 24-17, followed by a similar 24-17 defeat at the hands of the New York Jets in Week 2. If the Titans hope to turn their season around, their defense will need to tighten up considerably, both in the run game and pass coverage.
New Faces, Same Challenges
This offseason saw notable changes in the Titans' roster. Mason Rudolph joined the team, bringing with him a career record of 8-4-1 as a starter, with 19 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. His presence was seen as a potential boost, but thus far, it hasn't translated into victories. Additionally, the departure of Ryan Tannehill, who is currently navigating free agency in search of a new team, has had a significant impact on the team's dynamics and leadership.
Despite these changes, the Titans have yet to find their footing. As Coach Callahan emphasized, "We've not played a complete game in any phase at any point yet. 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."
Looking Ahead
The Titans' immediate future doesn't get any easier as they prepare to face the Miami Dolphins, who hold a 1-2 record. This matchup presents an opportunity to reset and make necessary adjustments. The team must rally around Levis, provide better protection, and enhance their defensive strategies.
Coach Callahan summed up the team's mentality and the road ahead succinctly: "We have to play better around him." These words ring true for every member of the team as they strive to overcome their early-season adversity and demonstrate their true potential on the field.
The Titans' early-season performance has spotlighted their vulnerabilities on both sides of the ball. To turn their season around, it will take a comprehensive effort, embracing accountability, and decisive improvements in execution. The path to redemption starts with recognizing these deficiencies and taking concrete steps to address them, game by game.