In a game that so many had an L written in, the Titans flipped the script. The Titans came out on fire, and the Patriots were not ready for it. Something seemed different after this victory though. After the game, the Titans weren’t cocky, they didn’t demand more respect like earlier in the season. Perhaps they learned their lesson? Play your game and let the media do what it wants because lord knows they will. The Titans played physical smash mouth football against the best team in the NFL, and the defense handled the rest.
Starting Fast
The Titans came out the gates with a passionate fire burning. That fire was not only to prove others wrong but to prove to themselves that they were who they thought they were. The Titans scored on their first three possessions, quickly taking a 17-3 lead. Having just under 7 minutes of possession on the first two TD drives was vital. They set the tone early and enforced it often. Lewis and Henry both played critical roles in this one, as it seems the LaFleur has finally figured out how to use his personnel efficiently. Usually, the key to beating the Patriots is keeping Brady on the sideline. The Titans quick scoring offered a different approach to defeating the Patriots. Physicality and efficiency seemed to rule all on Sunday afternoon.
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Rising to the Occasion
The Titans have a blessing and a curse, they either play up or down to the level of their opponent. Maybe playing the New England Patriots was precisely what the Titans needed to right the ship? Yikes, who would’ve thought that would be something said? The Titans came out with lots of energy, and that energy held throughout the game. Beating the Patriots was in fact exactly what the Titans needed. So often considered the lost and found of the Patriots, it was good to see the Titans take care of business. Perhaps one of the best parts of Sunday’s game was when the Titans did their own variation of the Philly Special against New England. After the game, Vrabel said he just wanted to see if their play looked better than the Patriots, it did.
Going Forward
Perhaps the biggest reason this is such a big win is because of the Titans upcoming games. 3 of the next 4 games are against division rivals, two of those coming on the road. This is the most crucial stretch of the season, and the Titans need to ride this momentum. Going against the Colts and then arguably the hottest team in the NFL, the Texans, isn’t going to be an easy task. If this Tennessee defense keeps dominating like they have been, look for the Titans to sweep the next four games. Consistent play has been an issue for Tennessee this year, but maybe they have figured things out now. Fingers crossed.
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