The Tennessee Titans' rocky start to the 2024 NFL season has left fans and analysts searching for answers. With a record of 0-3, the team's performance has raised concerns, especially after a particularly tough loss to the Green Bay Packers, where the Titans fell 30-14.
The latest setback exemplified many of the issues plaguing the team. Quarterback Will Levis showed flashes of promise by completing 26 of 34 passes for 260 yards and throwing two touchdowns. Despite this achievement, his two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown, cast a shadow over his efforts. These turnovers were costly, reinforcing a pattern as Levis now leads the NFL in turnovers with five interceptions and three fumbles.
Struggles in Protection and Defense
The offensive line's inability to protect Levis was glaring against the Packers, where he was sacked eight times. Head coach Brian Callahan didn’t mince words about the performance, saying, "We've not played a complete game in any phase at any point yet." This sentiment resonates with the Titans' defensive struggles as well. In the same game, the defense conceded a total of 378 yards, including 188 rushing yards, revealing vulnerabilities opponents have exploited.
A Shaky Start
Looking at the bigger picture, the Titans' season began with mirror-image losses, both ending 24-17, to the Chicago Bears and the New York Jets. Callahan acknowledged the team's underperformance, stating, "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."
Levis's journey has been particularly tumultuous. Aside from leading the league in interceptions and turnovers, the pressure to perform has magnified his every mistake. Callahan seems poised to maintain his support for Levis, emphasizing, "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."
Changes and Challenges
This season saw notable roster changes that have inevitably affected the Titans’ dynamics. Mason Rudolph joined the team in the offseason, bringing a career record of 8-4-1 as a starter, with 19 touchdowns against 11 interceptions. Meanwhile, longtime quarterback Ryan Tannehill's departure has left a leadership void as he navigates free agency in search of a new team.
There's no denying that the Titans are in a tough spot, but Callahan remains steadfast in his belief in the team's potential. "We have to play better around him," he said, referring to Levis. The next opportunity for the Titans to turn their season around comes against the Miami Dolphins, who own a 1-2 record. While the Dolphins are also hungry for a win, the Titans must address their glaring issues on both offense and defense to stand a chance.
As the Titans prepare for their upcoming challenge, fans are left wondering if this will be the game where the team finally puts together a complete performance. For now, the Titans’ season remains a work in progress, but the determination expressed by Callahan provides a glimmer of hope.