The regular season is here at long last, and the Titans are heading to Chicago to face the Bears, who are more optimistic than they have been in a long time thanks to rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, chosen with the first overall pick. Here are four things the Titans must be wary of Sunday at Soldier Field.
First down
Make the rookie look like a rookie. Williams is being heralded as possibly the second coming of Patrick Mahomes. His talent is evident, don’t expect new Titans defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson to blink. Instead, expect Wilson to blitz Williams from every angle and every situation possible to try and take advantage of his inexperience.
Can Williams beat the Titans’ exotic blitz scheme. Perhaps, but he might also make a costly mistake if the Titans can pressure him enough.
Second down
Beware of Kevin Byard. The Titans know all too well about safety Byard, who was a franchise cornerstone for seven and a-half years until they traded him to the Eagles to begin their rebuild. Byard, who landed in Chicago in the offseason, isn’t as fast as he used to be but he is still plenty smart and has a knack for making big plays. You can bet he would love nothing more in his first game against his old team.
Third down
Use your playmakers. Much was made of Will Levis and newly arrived receiver Calvin Ridley needing to get on the same page, especially on deep passes, throughout camp. But the truth is, Ridley is not the only option at Levis’ disposal. Look for Brian Callahan to put Levis in situations where guys like Tony Pollard and Tyler Boyd can show up in a big way Sunday, especially if the Bears work to take Ridley away.
Fourth down
Communicate and over-communicate. The Titans have plenty of new faces in new places this season. That means there will need to be communication and adjustments in order to avoid missed assignments and blown coverages. Time on the sideline with coaches will be even more valuable than usual as they head out for the first time for a regular-season game.