Tennessee Titans: Midseason Grades By Position
By Ben Greene
Defensive Line: B
Sep 29, 2013; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans linebacker Zach Brown (55) celebrates with defensive end Ropati Pitoitua (92) after a defensive play against the New York Jets during the second half at LP Field. The Titans beat the Jets 38-13. Mandatory Credit: Don McPeak-USA TODAY Sports
This entire defensive unit has played so well this season, with the exception of the San Francisco game, that a B grade feels low for the defensive line. However, the Titans are in the bottom half of the league in terms of rushing yards allowed, opponent yards per carry and rushing touchdowns allowed.
The best player on the defensive front so far this season has been Jurell Casey, who is tied for the team lead with four sacks and leads all Titans defensive linemen with 24 total tackles. Free agent acquisitions Ropati Pitoitua and Antonio Johnson have also made an impact in their first year with the team, notching four and three sacks, respectively.
In short, the defensive line is playing just fine this year. Sure, they’re not as dominant as they were back in 2008 and they could afford to get a better pass rush, but they are getting the job done.