Titans Struggle to Find Footing as Packers Await

https://icaro.icaromediagroup.com/system/images/photos/16352578/original/open-uri20240919-18-u6qs4b?1726758366
ICARO Media Group
News
19/09/2024 14h48

The Tennessee Titans are feeling the pressure as they head into Week 3 of the NFL season with a disappointing 0-2 record. After blowing a lead in their opener against the Chicago Bears and then falling short against the New York Jets, the Titans are desperate for a win as they prepare to face the Green Bay Packers on Sunday at Nissan Stadium in Nashville.

In their last game against the Jets, the Titans started strong, leading 7-0 after the first quarter and 10-7 at halftime. However, their performance in the second half fell apart. Despite having more first downs and total yards, the Titans struggled to hold off their opponents. Two turnovers from quarterback Will Levis, including a costly fumble inside the red-zone, contributed to their downfall. Levis was sacked four times and the Titans even had a punt blocked, adding to their woes.

Levis, a young and inexperienced quarterback, has faced his fair share of challenges behind a shaky offensive line. In his first 11 starts, the Titans have only managed to win three games, and Levis' statistics reflect his struggle. With a career passer rating of 81.0 and a QBR of 33.2, Levis has shown inconsistencies and a tendency to make reckless decisions. However, his strong arm and athleticism give him the potential to make plays outside of the pocket.

The Titans' offensive line, despite being highly invested in with draft capital, has not lived up to expectations. Allowing seven sacks on Levis in just two games, it is clear that pass protection is a major concern for Tennessee. On the positive side, the Titans' run game has shown promise, averaging 5.0 yards per carry. Running back Tony Pollard, a former Cowboy, has been a bright spot with 196 total yards in the first two games.

Defensively, the Titans have been relatively solid against the run, allowing just 4.0 yards per carry. Defensive lineman Jeffrey Simmons has been a standout player, recording three sacks, while rookie T'Vondre Sweat has made an impact on the interior. However, their pass defense has struggled to make an impact, and the Titans have only managed one takeaway in two games.

Turnovers have been a major issue for the Titans, with a -4 turnover margin through the first two weeks. Levis has been particularly reckless with the football, accounting for five turnovers himself. Given the Packers' ability to force mistakes, this is a cause for concern for the Titans heading into their upcoming matchup.

Despite their struggles, the Titans enter Week 3 mostly healthy. The defense has been particularly impressive, allowing just 3.8 yards per play, ranking first in the league. However, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins has had a slow start to the season with just three targets and two catches in two games. On the defensive side, linebacker Kenneth Murray leads the team in tackles but has also given up two touchdown passes in coverage.

As the Titans prepare to face the Green Bay Packers, they will need to tighten up their pass protection and reduce their turnovers if they hope to come away with a victory. The Packers, on the other hand, have the opportunity to exploit the Titans' weaknesses and continue their winning streak. Only time will tell if the Titans can turn their season around and avoid falling to a disappointing 0-3 start.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

Related