There have been a lot of different voices coming out of the Tennessee Titans locker room in the past few days, all stating different perspectives on what is holding the team back during their 1-5 start to 2024.
The frustrations are evident, and although their focus has been on different parts of the game-day experience, they all seem to point back to practice and preparation. The overriding theme of 2024 has been second-half dysfunction and the inability to hold a lead.
TE Nick Vannett touched on that after the latest implosion Sunday against the Buffalo Bills and went into detail about what he has seen and experienced this season.
TE Nick Vannett says the #Titans need to be better about sideline energy during games.
Second half feels different than the first half on sideline.
He feels they check out too early and don’t maintain positivity. It starts with leadership from core offensive players. pic.twitter.com/LCSRjHQof2
— AtoZ Sports Nashville (@AtoZSports) October 21, 2024
“Things are just getting flat. It’s different than it was in the first half, when we’re playing well, the energy’s there.” He said, “ And then, when things start to turn, that’s when we have to ramp it up. That’s when we have to buckle down and go to war. We have to practice that.
“Focus must come from the players, and not the coaches,” he continued and that is true.
However, with the constant second half issues that have plagued the Titans, everything cannot be placed on the players. Vannett subtly said that (and more) when referencing a lack of preparation against certain looks the offense has encountered while talking about the units’ struggles against pressure this season.
Nick Vannett says opposing defenses are bringing more pressure against the #Titans.
Says the team hasn’t handled the pressure well and hasn’t practiced for some of those looks during the week.
— AtoZ Sports Nashville (@AtoZSports) October 21, 2024
Yes, the Titans need to play better in the second half of games. There is no denying that. However, with multiple players pointing out “practice” in their statements, one has to wonder what the focus is or what exactly is taking place during those sessions. One thing has become clear after six games, they haven’t practiced how to close teams out in the second half.
Titans fans, how do you feel; is it the coaching or the players? Let us know in the comments or on social media and let us know your thoughts.