Titans fans, DON’T PANIC. It’s the preseason, yes we finished 0-4. Let me reiterate that, it’s the preseason. The preseason isn’t nearly as important as you’re making it out to be. That’s not to say it isn’t important, but it doesn’t exactly equal regular season success. Sorry in advance to Lions fans for bringing this up. The year the Detroit Lions went 0-16 guess what their preseason record was? Yup, 4-0. From undefeated to winless just like that. Never let preseason results skew your regular season expectations.
Stay Calm
If you didn’t already know, the Titans stayed very basic in the preseason. That goes for both the offense and the defense. They wanted to see how the players reacted among other things. New offensive coordinator Matt LaFleur’s offense only scored 40 points. This was undoubtedly by design, as I previously stated, they stayed basic. Why give away everything in the preseason? You don’t want teams to have film for Week 1 of the regular season. Also, keep in mind that Mariota will be getting his top two targets back. Neither Delaine Walker nor Rishard Matthews participated in any preseason action. While I tell you to stay calm, please understand that the Dolphins game is crucial.
Must Win
Is there such a thing as a must win in week 1 of the regular season? Absolutely not, however, it will be a crucial game. The Titans will obviously be in much better shape. The Titans have a rough stretch to open up the season. After the Dolphins, the Titans play Watson, and the Texans followed by the Jaguars. Indeed a tough 3 game stretch which precedes a matchup against the reigning Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles. So, to say it’s a must win is ridiculous. A win in the opener would undoubtedly go a long way.
What to Look For
When the Titans suit up for their first game, it will be good to see how Delaine and Rishard play. Sitting out the preseason can result in being rusty, I don’t think that will be the case with these two veterans though. Walker sounded confident that he’ll suit up and play for week one so it’s something to keep an eye on for sure. How will LaFleur use Lewis and Henry together? I think I can speak for us all when I say that I’m excited to find out. After the Titans get the win this week, I hope you will all be at ease. The Titans are here to stay, get used to it.
