The Titans have figured something out on the offensive line.
The Tennessee Titans entered the season with expectations on the offensive line. General manager Mike Borgonzi signed Dan Moore Jr. to a lucrative contract to play left tackle. Veteran Kevin Zeitler also joined the offensive line via free agency.
Lloyd Cushenberry is on a $50 million contract. Peter Skoronski and JC Latham complete the offensive line as first-round picks. Despite those investments, the Titans’ offensive line failed to meet expectations early.
A switch has completely flipped in recent outings. The offensive line was outstanding throughout the 31-29 Week 14 victory over the Cleveland Browns. Cam Ward had more touchdowns (2) than sacks (1) in that game. Tony Pollard rushed for a career-high 161 yards and two touchdowns (6.4 yards per carry) via 25 carries.
They built on that momentum throughout Sunday’s Week 15 loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Ward enjoyed his second consecutive multi-TD passing game. The pocket was beautifully clean on his 34-yard score to Gunnar Helm. Ward wasn’t sacked at all. The 49ers are one of the worst pass-rushing units in the league. The offensive line took full advantage of a positive matchup.
The Titans also ran the ball effectively again. Pollard gained 104 ground yards and scored a touchdown via just 14 attempts. Pollard, who looked totally finished a few weeks ago, averaged 7.4 yards per carry. Tyjae Spears averaged 11.3 YPC, rushing for 34 yards on three carries. It’s a shame the Titans trailed by so many points and couldn’t stick with the run.
Some thought maybe the Cushenberry injury improved the Titans’ offensive line. Corey Levin had stepped into the lineup flawlessly. But Cushenberry returned to the lineup on Sunday and they didn’t miss a beat up front in pass protection or run blocking.
The offense has gotten significantly better since parting ways with Brian and Bill Callahan. Moore, Skoronski, and Latham are guaranteed to return next season. Zeitler is a pending free agent. Cushenberry is a potential cap casualty, but his chances to stick improve if the offensive line performances stay consistent over the upcoming final three weeks.
Category: General Sports
