Tennessee Titans vs. Arizona Cardinals Defensive Recap
By Chase Maher
The Tennessee Titans continued their defensive dominance when they faced the Cardinals in their third preseason match. I completely understand, its the preseason, it doesn’t mean anything, but for three weeks now the defense has been consistent. Consistently good. Thanks in large part to Colin McCarthy, who has been a force thus far.
The Arizona Cardinals might have the worst offensive line in the NFL. So I will continue to hold true judgement until week 3 or 4 of the regular season, but I can’t help but get excited. The defensive line has been disruptive and hungry. Kamerion Wimbley sacked Kolb and Skelton on each of their first snaps. Morgan seemed to fly by the right tackle showing no signs of a previous knee injury while the defensive tackles had excellent push up the middle. McCarthy had two interceptions returning one for a touchdown, while Griffin snagged one as well. Overall the Titans forced five turnovers in a rout of the Arizona Cardinals.
It was a picture perfect description of how this defense needs to play in order for Tennessee to be successful this season. Again, only preseason and trust me, I am not getting too excited. I am simply showcasing a version of this Titans defense that we need week in and week out.
In my father’s words they were, “firing on all cylinders”, except for the two plays that Larry Fitzgerald schooled Verner and RoJo. I was happy with the starters, but more importantly since it is preseason, I was pleased with the progress of Zach brown, Coty Sensabaugh and Chris Hawkins. We will have the opportunity to see the 2nd stringers play a lot more in the final preseason match-up. I want to see Brown make more plays shedding blocks and being physical, but he certainly isn’t the softy many thought he’d be.
Jerry Gray has a lot planned for this team and the Cardinals game may have been the dress rehearsal. I am looking forward to all the new wrinkles, and I’ll be sure to keep you all informed on the varieties of formations he uses this upcoming season.
Colin McCarthy will continue to be the captain of this unit. I think its about time we create a nickname for this dude.
Follow me on Twitter at CM_TitanSized