Rapid Reaction: Titans v. Bengals

The Good

1. The running game: Chris Johnson, Shonn Green, and Jackie Battle got most of the work load tonight against the Bengals and picked up where they left off.  After a tough first drive for Johnson, he bounced back and looked great.  Definitely an encouraging sign for the Titans as that makes two weeks in a row with a solid running attack.

2. Jake Locker:  Although Jake's numbers were average, his play showed a confidence that Titans fans have been longing to see since last season. No interceptions throughout the preseason is a very encouraging sign.  He could have easily thrown two touchdowns tonight but drops from Kenny Britt and Nate Washington hindered his performance.  Jake Locker was one of the few bright spots in the Titans loss this evening.

Unfortunately that's about the only good that came from the game.  A few nice plays here and there, but overall a very sloppy performance by the Titans.

The Bad 

1. The kicking game: Bironas and Bonani looked absolutely terrible tonight.  I can't help but think that their weird "B" names have something to do with it.  I'm not too concerned, though.  Bironas should be solid once again this year.

2. Bernard Pollard:  For a guy with a big mouth, I've seen nothing to make me think he can back up his words so far.  He's a mediocre safety at best, and look for George Wilson to give him a run for his money in the coming weeks.

3. Defense:  Although Pollard stood out the most, the defense in general was absolutely awful.  If the Titans want to win more than a handful of games this season, they have to "Titan Up".  It could be a long season if we continue to see what we've seen in run defense early.  Akeem Ayers went down but should be fine. If Verner doesn't beat Campbell for the corner spot, we as Titans fans should boycott.  Verner is clearly better.

Conclusion

Much more negative that positive in the Titans second preseason game.  They looked tentative, sloppy, and just bad overall.  Game 3 against the Falcons should give us a better understanding of where they are, though, as we will see the starters play into the third quarter.  Oh and..... GO RUSTY!

Photo Credit:  http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/gametracker/recap/NFL_20130817_TEN@CIN/dalton-sharp-in-2719-win-over-offtarget-titans

Written by: Trey Frisbey
RWO Sports
8/17/2013