Home > Article
VOL. 48 | NO. 47 | Friday, November 22, 2024
Four Downs: Titans at Texans
By Terry McCormick
The Titans continue to fight, but the results have not been favorable. At least they haven’t taken any drubbings like the Jaguars did in Detroit Sunday. That said, they will be facing a big challenge on the road this week in a division game against Houston.
First down
Keep setting Levis up from improvement. Since returning from his shoulder injury, Will Levis’ play has improved dramatically. Yes, the sacks are still a concern but he has not put the ball in harm’s way and has shown poise and accuracy to the tune of hitting 35 of 54 passes (64.8%) for 470 yards with three touchdowns to one interception in that span. It hasn’t translated into wins yet but Levis needs to continue to stack good performances.
Second down
Catch a break. The officiating in the Titans past two games has definitely not gone their way, to say the least. A fumble return for a TD was overturned two weeks ago and Sunday a goal-line stand was nullified with a questionable flag, among other things. The Titans are overdue for a break – or maybe just a clean game, which they will need to hang with the Texans.
Third down
Pressure Stroud. C.J. Stroud is still an outstanding young quarterback but he has had a bit of a sophomore slump compared to his Rookie of the Year season in 2023. The Titans must keep the pressure on and maybe even force a turnover in order to have some sort of chance in this one.
Fourth down
Hope and pray at right tackle. Who knows who will be the next right tackle through the revolving door? Nicholas Petit-Frere, Leroy Watson, John Ojukwu, the since-injured Jaelyn Duncan and now Isaiah Prince have all tried and failed to lock down this position. Whatever combination is thrown out there this week, you can bet the Texans are gearing their defense to exploit it.