The Titans, who enter their bye week a 2-4 record and major issues, appear to be fading fast even in the mediocre AFC South. Here are four issues that need to be addressed during their time off.
First down
Evaluate the quarterbacks. With Ryan Tannehill injured, the Titans need to take this opportunity to see what they have in their young quarterbacks – Malik Willis and Will Levis. That said, Willis has had several chances to show his ability, so it would seem to make sense to see what Levis can offer.
Second down
Return to the King. The Titans seemingly are trying to wean themselves from relying on Derrick Henry. The problem is, he is still largely their most effective offensive threat. Henry has had only more than 15 carries in two games – the Titans’ two wins. While Tim Kelly might want to evolve the offense away from Henry, whose contract is up at season’s end, he simply can’t afford to right now. That is especially true if Levis or Willis ends up taking snaps for the next game or two.
Third down
Keep looking to make changes. The Titans benched Andre Dillard Sunday in favor of Nicholas Petit-Frere at left tackle. That move looks permanent. There are other underperforming players who perhaps need to be put on notice as well, if the Titans are going to right this season.
Fourth down
Score some points. That’s obviously been easier said than done, but the Titans have been a terrible combination of bad and boring for the last two seasons. They have now gone 24 straight games without scoring 30 points in a contest. How bad is that? It’s only two games shy of the expansion Tampa Bay Bucs, largely regarded as the worst NFL team of all-time and the loser of their first 26 games before scoring 33 in game No. 27 for the franchise’s first win.