The Tennessee Titans came out and looked more like the team that many expected to see in 2026. They played better, but it wasn't enough, and the Philadelphia Eagles pulled off a last-second 24-20 win.
The Titans looked physical on defense, though they still have plenty to clean up. The defense struggled to get off the field in the first half, allowing the Eagles to control the tempo. The offense flashed in spurts but still lacked the consistency needed to succeed.
The Titans offense was balanced, although it leaned on a conservative approach, especially in the red zone, and again relied too much on the right leg of Joey Slye. Tennessee needs to score touchdowns when given the chance, and they could not convert against the Eagles this week.
Final Score: Eagles 24, Titans 20
Keys to the Game
- Third down efficiency: This was a tale of two halves for the Titans. In the first half, neither the offense nor defense could do anything on third down. In the second half, both units improved greatly, and it showed.
- Running game: Tennessee stayed the course with the running game, and it paid off. While the numbers won't look great overall, they controlled the tempo in the second half and wore down the Eagles' defense. Tony Pollard led the way with 14 carries for 64 yards, and Tyjae Spears chipped in seven carries for 41 yards, including a huge third-down run that helped give Tennessee a shot late.
- Penalties: The Titans had seven penalties for 45 yards, but they came at the most inopportune times, killing momentum on offense or helping keep drives alive on defense. This is definitely something the head coach Robert Saleh and his staff must address moving forward.
It was over when...
Jalen
Hurts threw a three-yard touchdown pass to Darius Cooper with only seconds remaining in the contest.
Players of the Game
- QB Cam Ward: After struggling against the New York Jets in Week 1, he came out and played much better, almost leading the Titans to an upset victory. Ward finished 13-of-20 for 183 yards, but his two rushing touchdowns gave the Titans a chance to win. Ward also suffered from some drops by his wide receivers, which could have made a difference.
- DT Jeffery Simmons: Simmons spearheaded the charge with six total tackles and a sack, and was an emotional leader for the defense all afternoon.
- CB Marcus Harris: Harris has been a bright spot in the secondary and played a significant role in keeping the Titans in this game. His fourth-quarter interception helped change momentum, and his six total tackles were big.
Injuries
Fortunately, the Titans did not appear to suffer any significant injuries against the Eagles.
What's next?
Titans head coach Robert Saleh will meet with reporters on Monday afternoon to wrap up the week and set the stage for Week 3. Select players may be made available after Saleh's press conference.
Tennessee will return to practice on Wednesday ahead of a Week 3 game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Kickoff is scheduled for Noon CDT.
This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: Tennessee Titans crumble in final seconds, fall to Eagles, 24-20
