The Tennessee Titans' 2024 NFL season has been anything but smooth sailing so far. Starting the season winless in their first three games, the Titans are grappling with challenges on both sides of the ball. After falling to the Green Bay Packers 30-14 in their latest outing, the Titans' woes seem far from over.
A Complex Performance from Will Levis
Quarterback Will Levis offered a mixed bag in the recent loss to the Packers. Completing 26 of 34 passes for 260 yards and two touchdowns, Levis demonstrated his potential to lead the team. However, his performance was marred by two costly interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. Additionally, Levis was sacked eight times, highlighting significant issues in the offensive line's ability to protect their signal-caller.
The turnovers continue to be a pressing concern. Levis currently has the second-most interceptions in the league and leads the NFL in turnovers with three fumbles and five interceptions. These errors have been critical in the Titans' stumbles out of the gate this season.
Head coach Brian Callahan remarked on the persistence of these errors: "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."
Defensive Struggles Continue
Defensively, the Titans have also struggled. Against the Packers, they conceded 378 total yards, which included a worrying 188 rushing yards. Such defensive lapses have been consistent through their three losses this season. In the season opener, the Titans lost 24-17 to the Chicago Bears, followed by an identical scoreline defeat to the New York Jets in Week 2.
Callahan did not mince words when assessing his team's performance. "We've not played a complete game in any phase at any point yet," he stated. "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."
Offseason Changes and Adjustments
The offseason saw significant changes for the Titans. Veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill departed and is currently navigating free agency in search of a new team. To bolster their quarterback depth, the Titans brought in Mason Rudolph. Rudolph brings a previously competent record as a starter with 19 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, amassing an 8-4-1 record. Despite this addition, the Titans' struggles underscore the need for more cohesive and efficient play on both sides of the ball.
Callahan emphasized the need for collective improvement, stating, "We have to play better around him." The challenges are plenty, but the Titans still have time to rectify their season’s course.
Next Game Against the Dolphins
Looking ahead, the Titans will face the Miami Dolphins, who hold a 1-2 record. This matchup offers the Titans an opportunity to secure their first win of the season. However, given their current performance issues, the Titan's coaching staff will have to make significant adjustments to turn their fortunes around.
As the Titans prepare for their next game, it's clear that only a concerted team effort will suffice to overcome their early-season struggles. With a mixture of talent and a durable work ethic, they aim to show their fans and the league that they can indeed turn things around and play to their true potential.