By: Casey Fleser
Sunday was another disappointment for Tennessee Titans fans. The Titans lost to the Minnesota Vikings 30-7, adding to the Titans season record of 1-4. This was the first game of the season with backup quarterback Matt Hasselbeck starting, since Jake Locker is out with an injured shoulder. The game started out pretty well, but ended with unnecessary penalties and the Titans unable to convert on third downs. The Titans players and fans know all too well what has not been working for the team this season, but let’s take a look at what has been working.
Let’s start with this Sunday’s game against the Vikings. In my opinion, the most successful play of the game (aside from the one touchdown) was the fake punt. I always love a fake out! The Titans took a risk, used a wild cat play with Jordan Babineaux taking the snap, and converted on a fourth-and-one. Great play; successful in throwing the opposing team off guard. The risk paid off. There were also a few standout players that helped the team, including Jared Cook and Kendall Wright who continued to be an important receiver, with nine receptions.
Now, let’s take a step back…back to week three – the Titan’s only win this season against the Detroit Lions. They must have done something right in this game – what got the job done?
Big plays. Risky plays. The Titans took big risks during this game – one handed catches, using challenges successfully, great plays by special teams, and what fellow HerGameLife blogger Claire has dubbed the “Music City Miracle Part Two.” Taking risks and making unusual plays paid off for the Titans during this game.
It seems that the basic, run-of-the-mill plays have not been successful for the Titans so far. This does not mean forget the basics; the basics are essential for getting anywhere after the big plays. This means works on the basics, practice, practice, practice! In the meantime, let’s make some risky plays, try something new, surprise our opponents, there is not much to lose.
I could focus all day long on the negatives about the Titans so far this season, but I am trying to focus on the positives – what is working and what can be done to improve the remaining games to get some wins! What do other fans think is working for the Titans this season? I would love to hear!
