Tennessee Titans: Marcus Mariota reacts to getting benched in Week 6

Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota spoke about getting benched following the Week 6 loss to the Denver Broncos.

The Tennessee Titans made a huge change at quarterback in Week 6 after benching Marcus Mariota in favor of Ryan Tannehill during the loss to the Denver Broncos.

Prior to getting benched, Mariota was struggling mightily in what turned out to be a 16-0 loss. Mariota finished 7-of-18 for 63 yards and had two interceptions before being pulled in the third quarter.

While you can certainly point to the offensive line as being an issue, Mariota missed multiple routine throws to his receivers and looked like he took another step back in terms of his pocket presence in this one.

Mariota said head coach Mike Vrabel told him that the team needed a spark, which is why he was removed, per John Glennon of The Athletic.

"“He just told me we needed a spark. For me I just try to be the best team player I can be. Support my guy (Tannehill), support somebody that supported me throughout the entire year, and just kind of be another set of eyes for him.”"

Mariota also shared his feelings on the decision, per A to Z Sports Nashville.

"“I don’t feel great. Coach made a decision and he’s going to make a decision that’s best for the team. I respect it and I just try to be there for Ryan.”"

Here’s more from Mariota, courtesy of ESPN’s Turron Davenport.

"“Things happen for a reason, I truly believe that. I can learn from this, I’m going to grow from this, and I’ll become a better player.”"

Mariota also had this to say about his inaccuracy, per Paul Kuharsky.

"“I was inaccurate today, didn’t give our guys a chance to make plays, and obviously that’s some of the reasons why I got pulled.”"

Before all the Mariota detractors get all giddy, it must be said that this isn’t all on him.

Granted, we can certainly point to things he’s done wrong over the years, however the Titans have made plenty of missteps in that time that have gotten us to this point. Mariota simply wasn’t able to overcome them all.