The Tennessee Titans were defeated 38-14 by the Indianapolis Colts in Week 8. The Nashville-based club fell to 1-7. We’ve compiled five observations from the Titans’ latest setback.
Chimere Dike continues to shine
Rookie wide receiver
Chimere Dike had his second straight eye-opening performance. Dike recorded seven receptions for 92 receiving yards. He’s been Cam Ward’s to-go receiver since Calvin Ridley exited the lineup with injury. He’s starting to perform like a long-term starter at a position of need.
Cam Ward shows growth
Rookie quarterback Cam Ward performed admirably. Ward completed 22-of-38 passing attempts for 259 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. It was important that he didn’t fumble, and his lone INT was a 4th-and-goal desperation throw in a late-game blowout. The No. 1 overall quarterback made shrewd decisions, was accurate, and extended the pocket with his arm/legs.
The defense is terrible
The defense was shorthanded with Jeffery Simmons and Arden Key out of the lineup. Daniel Jones and Jonathan Taylor predictably took advantage. Mike Borgonzi has quite the task on his hands to revamp the defense this coming offseason. Simmons and Cedric Gray are among the only defenders under contract with redeeming qualities.
Mike McCoy is too conservative
Titans interim head coach Mike McCoy had two questionable, cowardly punts. The first occurred near halftime, and the second gained the Titans 22 yards of field position during the third quarter. Taylor immediately rushed for a long touchdown, effectively ending the game. Ward was visibly upset about the second punt, voicing his displeasure on the sideline.
Tyjae Spears is more explosive than Tony Pollard
Tyjae Spears outproduced Tony Pollard. The former Tulane standout was visibly more explosive than the less-impactful veteran was. Pollard is notably a candidate to be traded near next week’s deadline. Spears rushed for 59 yards and a TD via nine carries, averaging 6.6 yards per carry, including a 41-yard gain that was the offense’s longest run in approximately two seasons.
