Monday, September 16, 2013

Titans fans should be optimistic following loss

Yes, the Tennessee Titans let one slip away in Houston Sunday afternoon. Yes, the Titans should be 2-0, and leading the division for the first time in.....in....in....?

Well...you get the point.

For those that are still feeling the sting of yesterday's loss, there is reason for optimism. For the glass half empty pessimist, I throw out these numbers....

72-23.

That was the point differential in last year's embarrassing 0-2 start. And as we all know, things went downhill from there like Tennessee was Tokyo-drifting through the 2012 schedule.

With that being said, most realistic Titans supporters would've predicted a similar fate this year for Tennessee with their first two games being played in Pittsburgh and Houston.

I think I speak for just about every Titans fan when I say that we'll take 1-1, especially with a three game home stand on the horizon.

Further cause for optimism in the Music City? Improvement.....in key areas.

Coming into the 2013 season, the biggest question concerning the Titans was the growth of their franchise qb Jake Locker...who had more interceptions than touchdowns last year. That's not even including the fumbles. So far this year, Locker has been turnover free, while connecting on two td passes. One capping a 99 yard drive to take the lead in Houston yesterday. With a revamped offensive line and running game, Tennessee will be in games late all year if Locker continues to take care of the ball. Yes, Locker was off on a crucial third down pass to Kenny Britt yesterday, but overall, he's been the game manager coach Munchak has asked him to be.

The second biggest question surrounding the Titans coming into this season was the play of the defense....a defense that gave up the most points in the league last year. Credit newly reacquired assistant defensive coordinator Gregg Williams for turning a bunch of dudes getting pushed all over the field like they were playing on roller skates into a physical unit that's pressuring the qb and forcing turnovers. Tennessee's defensive unit has forced seven sacks, three interceptions, a forced fumble recovery (in their end zone to prevent a score), and a defensive score of their own. Not bad for a unit that was the worst in franchise history just a year ago.

And let's give some credit to the Houston Texans as well...we saw them roar from behind to snatch a victory on the last play of the game last week. This particular game came down to four plays.

A missed field goal by Rob Bironas.

A second straight safety this week.

A remarkable third down catch late in the game by Andre Johnson....one of the best in the game.

A circus game clinching catch by rookie DeAndre Hopkins in overtime.

Keep in mind there was excellent coverage on both receptions...the Texans made the play...and Tennessee didn't.

Even if you are disappointed, this loss shouldn't sting like last year's 0-2 start. Tennessee is set to begin a three game home stand...and Music City will be more than fired up to root on their Titans as the Chargers come to town.

From what we've seen of the Chargers (1-1) so far...as well as the division (Titans tied for second place / a game and a half out of the division lead) there is no reason to throw in the towel after yesterday's meltdown in H Town.

If anything, Tennessee (and their fans) should be looking forward to their week 3 match up with San Diego. The Titans have actually opened as a 3 point favorite.

If Vegas is giving Tennessee the benefit of the doubt, fans should too.        follow @plcolter


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