Three weeks into the 2024 NFL season, the Tennessee Titans find themselves in a dire situation, starting 0-3 with no shortage of issues. The most recent setback came with a 30-14 loss to the Green Bay Packers. Head Coach Brian Callahan summed it up succinctly, "We've not played a complete game in any phase at any point yet."
A Rocky Start
The Titans' early-season struggles began with narrow defeats: a 24-17 loss to the Chicago Bears in Week 1 and another 24-17 loss to the New York Jets in Week 2. However, the game against the Packers highlighted more severe deficiencies. Quarterback Will Levis showed flashes of potential by completing 26 of 34 passes for 260 yards and throwing two touchdowns. Yet, his performance was marred by two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown, and he was sacked eight times.
Callahan's frustration was evident, yet he remained focused on the broader picture. "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," he stated. "We keep giving up points the other way. It's hard to overcome."
Turnover Troubles
Levis currently leads the NFL in turnovers with three fumbles and five interceptions, holding the second-most interceptions in the league. His struggles have contributed to the team's overall woes, but it isn't fair to place all the blame on him. As Callahan pointed out, "We have to play better around him."
The defense also has its share of shortcomings. In their loss to the Packers, the Titans gave up a total of 378 yards, including a staggering 188 rushing yards. This porousness has been a recurring theme. In games where the opposition exploits both the air and ground, winning becomes an uphill battle.
New Faces and Departures
This offseason saw significant changes in the Titans' roster. Notably, Ryan Tannehill, who had been a steady presence at quarterback, departed and is now navigating free agency. In his place, the Titans acquired Mason Rudolph. Rudolph brings a career record of 8-4-1 as a starter, with 19 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, offering a potentially reliable option should Levis' issues persist. However, the team has yet to turn to Rudolph in hopes that Levis can settle into his role.
A Glimmer of Hope?
The Titans will face the Miami Dolphins next, who hold a 1-2 record. While the season is still young, Tennessee's back is already against the wall. Being winless after three games can be a tough hole to dig out from, but Callahan believes in the team's potential. "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," he emphasized.
To turn their season around, the Titans must address several critical areas. Improved protection for Levis will be key; eight sacks in one game suggest more significant issues with the offensive line. Defensive coordination also requires immediate attention to avoid future games where they allow nearly 200 yards rushing.
Ultimately, turning the ship around will depend on the team's ability to play cohesive, mistake-free football. The pieces seem to be in place, but their execution on Sundays will determine whether the Titans can recover from their rocky start. As Callahan asserted, "We just can't give it to the other team."
For Tennessee, the upcoming game against the Dolphins offers a chance to rectify their course. It remains to be seen if they can capitalize on this opportunity and begin to claw their way out of the hole they've dug for themselves in the opening weeks of the season.