Chicago’s the Windy City but today, the wind was just as ferocious in Cincinnati during the Titans’ 24-7 victory over the Bengals.
In a contest filled with punts and kicks that resembled doubles and triples hit in neighborhood wiffle ball games, the Tennessee Titans utilized a grinding rushing attack and a solid Kerry Collins performance to reach the 2-0 mark.
Game Balls
Kerry Collins did a great job managing the football game. He completed 14 of his 21 passes for 128 yards and a score. His presence in the lineup also opened up playmaking opportunities for the much-maligned Titan receivers, led by Justin Gage’s 5 receptions for 59 yards and a score.
Almost half of Chris Johnson’s 109 yards came on one carry; a fifty-one yard scamper that set up the Titans’ second TD. He reminds me alot of Barry Sanders, with his ability to break the long one despite being stuffed on numerous occasions.
Of course, Johnson has a long way to go to reach the accomplishments attained by Detroit’s exciting, Hall of Fame RB. Nonetheless, Johnson is exciting to watch and he adds a dimension that this team has lacked for years: the ability to take it to the house on any given play.
Craig Hentrich may not make Sportscenter tonight, but his performance while punting in the windy conditions played a role in Tennessee’s victory.
His 70-yard wind-aided punt pinned the Bengals inside their own five yard line right as the 3rd quarter ended. Cincinnati was thus forced to operate in front of their own end zone with the wind in their faces as the 4th quarter began.
The poor field position and mighty sword of the intimidating wind led to a three and out and on 4th down, Keith Bulluck blocked and recovered a punt for a TD.
Areas of concern
-The special teams coverage units once again gave up a few long returns today.
-The Titan defensive line was called for numerous offsides penalties.
-Kevin Mawae and Albert Haynesworth left the game briefly because of injuries. The ailments didn’t appear to be serious so hopefully, both guys will be ready to go next week.
-3rd down conversions were once again a problem this week, as the Titans finished 4-13 on 3rd downs.
Final thoughts
-Jeff Fisher showed once again why he’s one of the league’s best coaches. Despite last week’s distractions, his guys came out ready to play and were able to emerge victorious in a contest that had all the makings of a trap game.
-The Titans were again successful in the redzone, converting on 2 of their 3 opportunities inside the Bengals’ 20. For those who aren’t counting, that’s 4/5 (80%) on the year: a far cry from last year’s 36% performance.
-Giving credit where credit is due: Despite being on the losing end, former Titan Antwan Odom made his presence felt, forcing a fumble while attaining a sack.
-Giving credit where credit is due part II- Chris Perry gave the Titan D fits at times with his shiftiness. Nice last name, Chris.
-Ocho Cinco had nada big plays today. Bueno!
What are your thoughts on today’s Titan victory?
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