Why Todd Downing must trust Titans QB Ryan Tannehill more often going forward
The Tennessee Titans did not get the outcome they wanted in Week 1. Offensive coordinator Todd Downing has caught plenty of flak for the loss, and it makes sense. That being said, there is a clear takeaway that Downing and the Titans must build on going forward. Titans' quarterback Ryan Tannehill led the NFL in […]
The Tennessee Titans did not get the outcome they wanted in Week 1. Offensive coordinator Todd Downing has caught plenty of flak for the loss, and it makes sense. That being said, there is a clear takeaway that Downing and the Titans must build on going forward.
Titans' quarterback Ryan Tannehill led the NFL in completions of 20+ yards in Week 1. Part of that may be due to a weak New York Giants secondary, but it also shows that Tannehill can push the ball downfield. Rookie WRs Treylon Burks and Kyle Philips both provide upside down the field.
Todd Downing must put more trust in Tannehill, especially on clear passing downs. Having RB Derrick Henry in the backfield can open up receivers past the first down marker, and the Titans need to take advantage.
The third-down play calling is a separate story, but Downing has to allow Tannehill to make more aggressive throws. Being conservative offensively can only get the Titans so far.
The increased trust may result in more interceptions. The Titans have to live with that.
It will pay off in the long run because the offense will be much more explosive. Not to mention, the Titans play in arguably the weakest division in the AFC when it comes to passing defense. They have to take advantage.
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