Recently, I predicted that the Titans defense would have to win two games this season without much help from the offense. I didn’t expect this to be necessary so soon.
Stellar play by Tennessee’s defensive line and by cornerback Cortland Finnegan held the Jacksonville Jaguars to ten points. The Titans offense, spearheaded by rookie running back Chris Johnson, did just enough to help earn today’s victory.
Story of the Game: Titans Championship Defense
Jaguars quarterback David Garrard, who only threw three interceptions in 2007 (wow!), was intercepted twice by Finnegan and sacked seven times. Tennessee held the Jags to only 33 yards rushing, an incredible accomplishment given the talent in Jacksonville’s backfield. Albert Haynesworth and Tony Brown had two sacks each.
The Other Story of the Game: Get The Ball to Chris Johnson
The Titans drafted the player I felt they had to have. Better yet, he started today’s game and was a major contributor on offense. He rushed for 93 yards on 15 carries, and caught three passes for 34 yards and scored his first NFL touchdown.
There were times during the game that I thought the Titans should have gotten him even more involved in the offense. Vince Young struggled today. He passed for only 110 yards and threw two interceptions. Additionally, he may have a torn MCL and could miss a few games.
Next Week: Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals were toothless against the rebuilding Baltimore Ravens. I’m not as concerned about the prospect of a Titans loss, regardless of whether VY or Kerry Collins starts at quarterback. If the best players on Tennessee’s defense stay healthy this year, they will continue to strike fear in the hearts of opposing offensive players and coordinators.
The Titans are in first place after losses by the Jaguars, Colts and Texans. Let’s hope Vince Young gets healthy soon so he can continue growing positively as a quarterback. He does not need a major setback right now, given his inconsistent play as of late.
Go Titans!
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Watch video highlights of the Titans-Jaguars game by clicking here.
Will Leon 