Dolphins Wash Out Titans
There was so much buzz surrounding the Titans season opener. Everything was laid in place for a strong showing. Everything went wrong after Mother Nature had her say on this game. The Dolphins were better prepared for this game and their ability to be sharp after two long weather delays proved it. Miami asserted their will on the visiting Tennessee Titans with an impressive 27-20 week one win.
Tennessee paid a big price this game, losing all-pro tight end Delanie Walker for the season with a dislocated ankle and an associated fracture. In fact, the injury bug also haunted the Titans today as they lost offensive lineman Taylor Lewan (concussion) and quarterback Marcus Mariota (elbow).
The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
The Good
While this game was certainly nothing for Titan fans to be excited about, there were some silver linings. Corey Davis looked to be much improved and caught the majority of his catchable targets. Davis also displayed improvement in creating separation and running crisp routes. In fact, he finished the day catching six of his 13 targets for 62 yards. That stat line is solid but nothing to thump your chest about. However, considering the loss of Mariota for most of the game, this was certainly an encouraging sign.
Dion Lewis was another bright spot for the team. While Henry got most of the work with the first team early, Lewis dominated the second half and provided a little life for the offense. Lewis finished the day with 16 carries for 75 yards and one touchdown while also contributing five catches for 35 yards. With so much expectation and focus on how the backfield competition it appears that Lewis clearly has a better early grasp on the offense.
The Bad
Marcus Mariota was clearly thrown out of his rhythm by the weather and never was able to get back going. Mariota had a good connection with Davis early but struggled to get anything else going in the passing game. His day was ended early with a brief hand injury and then missed the rest of the game with an elbow injury. Mariota’s day ended completing 9/16 for 103 yards and two picks.
The Ugly
Derrick Henry struggled to hit any running lanes today and was largely inefficient overall. Henry touted the rock 10 times for 26 yards with a long of only five yards. Henry barely saw any action in the second half as Lewis was clearly more effective in the backfield.
A Look Ahead
The Titans make their home debut next week against the division rival Houston Texans.
