Tennessee Titans: Is Chris Palmer Really to Blame?

Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-US PRESSWIRE

I’m sure there are more than a few Tennessee Titans fans out there that are calling for the head of OC Chris Palmer, but is he really to blame? I have a feeling that most everyone will say that he is to blame, but why?

Most people knew this would be a rebuilding year for the Titans, yet that always seems to fall by the wayside once a season starts. The Titans have plenty of talent offensively to compete in the NFL. The Titans have one of the best runners in the game in Chris Johnson. A good group of receivers. A very effective pass blocking offensive line. So what’s the deal?

Well, to put it simply, it takes time to learn a new offense. It also takes time to learn a new offense when you are integrating new offensive linemen, juggling QBs, and trying to find continuity in the running game. Trying to do all this while your defense is giving up 30+ points a game isn’t easy either.

Due to Jake Locker getting injured and missing 5 games the offense has gone from one that would like to throw the ball downfield to one that spreads the ball around and leans on the running game. I don’t have a problem with this kind of offense but when the only way you can strike quick offensively is through your running game, it’s easier for the defense to focus on. Don’t get beat deep and stop the run, make the Titans methodically move the ball down the field. Some games they have done this well but it places too much pressure on the offense as a whole to consistently have to play like this.

I’m anxious to see how Jake Locker looks guiding the offense this weekend, it seems like its been a year since I’ve seen him play. Will the running game suffer with him back at the helm? Will he consistently find the open receiver? Most importantly, will his shoulder hold up for the rest of the season? We’ll see.

It also doesn’t help that the Titans have the second hardest strength of schedule in the NFL. We all knew that would be hard to overcome as well when looking at the Titans schedule. For a struggling offense and non existent defense, playing the second toughest schedule spells disaster.

I would hold judgement until everyone is healthy and clicking on all cylinders.

What say you?

Shawn Eagle

You can follow me on twitter @RS1Eagle