The Tennessee Titans will play against Derrick Henry, Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens in Week 4. The winless Titans need to be significantly better than they’ve been if they hope to execute an upset. We’ve identified three veteran players the team needs big-time performances from.
QB Cam Ward
It obviously starts with quarterback Cam Ward. Believe it or not, the sophomore No. 1 overall pick did some good things versus the New York Giants in Week 2, including leading a possession where he completed 8-of-8
passing attempts and threw a touchdown. But Ward made two glaring red-zone errors that cost the Titans 14 points in a five-point defeat.
The fanbase is beginning to sour on Ward. Sunday’s showdown with the Ravens will be his 21st career start. The Titans can’t admit defeat on a top-pick quarterback this quickly, but progress needs to start becoming evident.
DE Jermaine Johnson II
The offseason trade that sent T’Vondre Sweat to the New York Jets for defensive end Jermaine Johnson II is starting to age terribly. Sweat has made an instant impact in East Rutherford. Meanwhile Johnson doesn’t have his first sack with the Titans.
All the advanced metrics (Pro Football Focus) say Johnson has been Tennessee’s least efficient pass rusher. Playing against Lamar Jackson and this Ravens offensive line is always a challenge. The Titans need way more from Johnson.
CB Alontae Taylor
PFF has Titans cornerback Alontae Taylor allowing 13 receptions on 15 targets for 116 yards. That’s a completion percentage of 86.7%. He also doesn’t have an interception or a pass breakup yet.
Taylor has been serviceable on tape, but the Titans need more from their $19 million per year cornerback. Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers has been excellent through three weeks. Taylor will probably draw the coverage assignment on Flowers.
