The Tennessee Titans suffered a nailbiting loss to the Cleveland Browns, losing 27-24 in Week 7. Both the offense and defense squandered away opportunities to win a contest the Titans once led 14-0. Analyzing the bright side, it was arguably the offense’s best output of the campaign.
The 24 points were the most the Titans offense has scored this season. They collectively scored 26 versus the Colts last weekend, but that included a blocked punt returned for a touchdown. Perhaps Brian Daboll and the offense unlocked
something with Tony Pollard moving forward.
The Titans rushed for 141 yards. It was arguably Pollard’s best performance in Tennessee. The veteran back rushed for 129 yards and three touchdowns. Pollard did that while averaging more than 5.0 yards per attempt.
Pollard’s production removed some pressure from young quarterback Cam Ward. Ward still made a few mistakes, but he also made several big-time throws throughout the second half. Surely he appreciated leaning on Pollard.
Entering Week 7, the Titans hadn’t run the football consistently. It was a breakout performance for Pollard in a game where Tyjae Spears and Nicholas Singleton were inactive. It’s worth remembering Pollard and the Titans’ run-game got things going in similar fashion down the stretch of last season. That offensive line also featured Dan Moore, Peter Skoronski, and JC Latham.
Hopefully the offensive line will eventually get Fernando Carmona back. If Daboll’s unit continues running the football effectively, the offense could start scoring 20+ points consistently. They’ve failed to reach that scoring benchmark in four of seven games this season.
The Titans absolutely should have defeated the Browns on Sunday. Pollard and the offensive line did enough to carry the offense to victory. Unfortunately, both the passing attack and defense let the Titans down in crucial moments. Hopefully the offense made progress though.
