Titans vs. Steelers: Week 1 Studs, Duds, Grades & Reaction

Studs (Part II)

Sep 8, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Tennessee Titans running back Jackie Battle (22) celebrates a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports

Rob Bironas
Kicking at Heinz Field? No problem for Rob Bironas, who made all three of his field-goal attempts. One of them came from 44 yards. Bironas accounted for 10 of the Titans’ 16 points (three field goals, one extra point).

Defense
Last season, this defense surrendered a franchise-worst 471 points. In 2013, the Steelers offense needed 58:34 seconds before they scored their first points. That came against a prevent defense.

Jackie Battle
Smash and Dash was put on hiatus when Shonn Greene suffered a knee injury. Actually, Jackie Battle just took over the role of “Smash.” Battle had eight carries for 21 yards. That includes a three-yard touchdown run and some big three-and-short pickups.

Much like Eddie George, the stat sheet doesn’t tell the whole story with his contributions. Battle may become one of the best “unknown” free-agent signings this season.