As the Tennessee Titans navigate the rocky waters of the 2024 NFL season, the team finds itself grappling with challenges on multiple fronts. A disheartening 0-3 start has put the Titans in a precarious position, with glaring issues on both offense and defense.
Painful Defeats
The Titans' struggles began in Week 1 with a narrow 24-17 loss to the Chicago Bears, followed by an identical 24-17 defeat at the hands of the New York Jets in Week 2. The hope for redemption in Week 3 was dashed as the Titans succumbed to a 30-14 rout by the Green Bay Packers.
Quarterback Troubles
Quarterback Will Levis finds himself at the center of the storm, with a performance that has left much to be desired. Against the Packers, Levis completed 26 of 34 passes for 260 yards, managing to throw two touchdowns. However, these achievements were overshadowed by two critical interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. Moreover, Levis was relentlessly pressured, suffering eight sacks in the game.
Titans' offensive woes are not just limited to Levis' interceptions. He currently holds the dubious distinction of having the second-most interceptions in the league, with a total of five, accompanied by three fumbles. This alarming turnover rate has placed the Titans in a vulnerable position, leading the NFL in total turnovers.
Defensive Struggles
The defensive unit hasn't fared any better. The Titans allowed the Packers to rack up 378 total yards, 188 of which came on the ground. Such lapses in basic defensive execution have compounded the Titans' problems, preventing the team from mounting any serious comeback efforts.
Brian Callahan, the Titans' head coach, acknowledged the team's shortcomings across the board. "We've not played a complete game in any phase at any point yet," Callahan admitted. He further emphasized the need for a team effort, saying, "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."
Leadership Transition
The departure of veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill during the offseason has left a noticeable void. Tannehill, currently navigating free agency, was a stabilizing presence for the Titans. In his absence, Mason Rudolph joined the team, bringing with him a career record of 8-4-1 as a starter, with 19 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. However, the transition has not been seamless, and the team's performance reflects the growing pains of this new era.
Looking Ahead
As the Titans prepare to face the Miami Dolphins, who are also struggling with a 1-2 record, the focus remains on improving overall execution. Callahan's perspective on the situation encapsulates the team's challenge. "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," he stated. But it's clear that the team needs a collective effort to turn things around. "We have to play better around him," Callahan concluded, pointing to the need for a more cohesive unit.
The Titans' current trajectory can change, but it will require a balanced approach on both sides of the ball. For now, the fans and the team can only hope that the rough start will galvanize a resurgence as the season progresses.