Tennessee Titans: Five Keys To Successful 2015

Jan 24, 2015; Mobile, AL, USA; North squad running back David Cobb of Minnesota (37) runs the ball against the South squad in the third quarter of the Senior Bowl at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. The North won, 34-13. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Andrews-USA TODAY Sports

David Cobb 

The two big problems(among many) the Tennessee Titans had in 2014 was third down. On both sides of the ball! They couldn’t buy a first down when they needed it the most, and the defense couldn’t get off the field on third down.

I have addressed this problem for the defense during the Brian Orakpo segment, but let’s talk about that much-needed first down on offense.

The big key to solving this problem lies on the shoulders of two rookies. Marcus Mariota and David Cobb.

We saw during the last two collegiate seasons what Mariota can do with his legs, and I expect there to be more of that in Nashville this year.

This aspect of Mariota’s game will depend on David Cobb, or second-year running back, Bishop Sankey.

We saw what a spread quarterback can do with the Redskins in 2012 when Robert Griffin III hit the league. RGIII‘s success, however was a direct result of Albert Morris’ running skills. Unfortunately, we saw what happens when the quarterback doesn’t throw the ball away when there is nothing to gain.

If David Cobb can be the physical runner we saw in Minnesota last year, and develop into a safety valve for Mariota, this will be a key for the success of this season.

Next: Brett Kern & Ryan Succop