The Tennessee Titans are off to a rough start in the 2024 NFL season, holding a winless 0-3 record after a series of challenging games. The most recent loss came at the hands of the Green Bay Packers, who defeated the Titans 30-14. This marks the Titans' third consecutive defeat, putting significant pressure on the team to turn their season around.
Quarterback Will Levis had a mixed performance against the Packers, completing 26 of 34 passes for 260 yards and two touchdowns. However, Levis also threw two critical interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. Furthermore, he was sacked a staggering eight times, indicating serious issues within the Titans’ offensive line. "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," acknowledged Brian Callahan, hinting at the persistent struggles the team faces.
The Titans' defense also had a tough outing, conceding 378 total yards to the Packers, including a substantial 188 rushing yards. This defensive frailty has been a recurring issue, as noted in their losses to both the Chicago Bears and the New York Jets in the initial weeks. Each of those games ended with identical 24-17 scorelines, underlining a pattern of failing to secure victories in tight contests.
Levis currently holds the second-most interceptions in the league, with a total of five. Adding to the team's woes, he also leads the NFL in turnovers with three fumbles. These statistics underscore a rough start to the season for the young quarterback, who undoubtedly shoulders a significant portion of the responsibility for the team's dismal record so far. "We have to play better around him," Callahan emphasized, suggesting that the onus is not solely on Levis but on the entire team to improve their performances.
In an effort to bolster their quarterback options, the Titans signed Mason Rudolph during the offseason. Rudolph brings with him a career starter record of 8-4-1, with 19 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. His experience and past performances may provide a stabilizing presence if called upon. The offseason also saw the departure of veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill, who is currently navigating free agency in search of a new team. This transition period has left the Titans in a state of flux, especially at the critical quarterback position.
Looking to get their season back on track, the Titans' next challenge comes against the Miami Dolphins, who themselves hold a 1-2 record. This matchup presents a vital opportunity for the Titans to secure their first win of the season and build some much-needed momentum. Callahan remains optimistic but realistic about the team's prospects: "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." His words reflect the mounting urgency within the Titans' camp.
The Titans' struggles over the past three weeks have highlighted fundamental issues that extend beyond just one player or phase of their game. "We've not played a complete game in any phase at any point yet," Callahan admitted, pointing to the need for a holistic improvement. As the team prepares to face the Dolphins, the pressure is on the coaching staff and players alike to deliver a performance that can halt their downward spiral.
Ultimately, the Titans are at a crossroads early in their 2024 campaign. While the deficits and losses have exposed their vulnerabilities, there remains a glimmer of hope that they can find their footing and turn the season around. With a united front and improved execution, the Titans still have the potential to overcome their rocky start and strive for success in the weeks ahead.