In a disappointing start to their 2024 NFL season, the Tennessee Titans have fallen to 0-2 following a 24-17 defeat at the hands of the New York Jets in Week 2. A key moment in the game was a pivotal error by quarterback Will Levis, whose pass to Tyjae Spears resulted in a fumble.
The Jets wasted no time capitalizing on Levis' miscue, adding to the Titans' woes. Offensive coordinator Callahan did not mince words in his postgame press conference, labeling Levis' decision as "dumb." It's a sentiment Levis didn't argue against, even acknowledging the mistake himself. "He told us straight off, he's not a yeller and screamer, but he can be, and there's certain situations that allow for that, and that definitely was one of those situations," Levis admitted. "I didn't bat an eye at it. I took the coaching."
Levis has developed a reputation for his risk-taking approach, a style that has often drawn mixed reviews. Despite his gunslinger mentality, he recognizes the need for better decision-making on the field. "I was yelling at myself in my head the same way he was yelling at me," he revealed. "I know it's an emotional response that we all have after things like that. We were right back to it, and he had confidence in me on the next play taking that shot. That was cool to feel, coming back on the field after that turnover, even though we had another one after that. I don't have any problem with how he handled himself."
Levis' risk-taking style hasn't been without its consequences. The quarterback's tumultuous start to the season includes three interceptions and two fumbles in just two games. Critics believe this recklessness was a significant factor that contributed to his slide in the 2023 NFL Draft, where he was selected 33rd overall. Reflecting on his college career, Levis confessed, "I think a lot of people, when they hear gunslinger, they think about recklessness. I definitely feel like I was a little too reckless in my college career and tried to make some throws that I would want to take back. I changed that mentality a bit in my play last year. Just realizing at the level that I was playing at where I had to be that much more careful with the ball. I was proud of how I was able to protect it a little more than I did in my college years."
It's clear that Levis is aware of the adjustments needed to elevate his performance. The Titans' aim for the 2024 season is to make a playoff run, a goal that seems increasingly challenging given their early performances. "The goal for the 2024 Titans is to make a playoff run," Levis stated. For a team with playoff aspirations, these early setbacks underscore the critical need for improvement and cohesion, starting at the quarterback position.
Upcoming challenges won't make the Titans' journey any easier. They are slated to host the Green Bay Packers this Sunday, a game that will see the Packers without their starting quarterback Jordan Love. Instead, Malik Willis will be stepping in due to injury. The Titans must capitalize on this opportunity to turn their season around and build some momentum.
Levis' response to criticism and his introspective approach to his own mistakes suggest a level of maturity that will be essential for the Titans as they navigate the rest of the season. While the road ahead is undoubtedly fraught with challenges, Levis' acknowledgment of his shortcomings and willingness to learn may be the key to turning things around for Tennessee. The team’s performance in the upcoming game against the Packers could set the tone for the season, making it a must-watch for Titans fans and football enthusiasts alike.