NASHVILLE – The Titans face the Chicago Bears in the preseason finale on Saturday night at Nissan Stadium.
Here's a look at six things to watch in the contest:
Cam's Last Tune-Up
OK, so things haven't looked all that great for the first team offense so far in the preseason. In two preseason games, the Titans have scored just one touchdown in the six possessions with Cam Ward in the game, and there have been misses in the passing game. After another solid joint practice, this one vs the Bears on Thursday, the Titans would love to see some carryover and build on success in the preseason finale. In the grand scheme of things, what happens on Saturday night probably won't impact what happens in the regular season opener against the Jets. But wouldn't it be nice to go into the two-week stretch before the opener with a little positivity?
Carnell's Momentum
Speaking of momentum, rookie Carnell Tate has a chance to end the preseason with even more confidence. Tate has been quiet so far in the preseason, with zero catches on five targets. Some of the throws his way haven't been catchable. Tate had seven catches and two touchdowns in Thursday's joint practice vs the Bears while reminding everyone why the team picked him fourth overall in the draft. It makes sense for the Titans to get Tate a few touches in Saturday's game.
First Team Defense
The Titans defenders didn't seem overly concerned with the two big plays allowed in this past Sunday's game against the Seahawks, but it sure didn't look pretty. Yes, there are teachable moments that come out of these preseason games, but we're getting close to the real thing and it's time to get things buttoned up. Titans coach Robert Saleh has hinted the starters might play 20-25 plays in this one, maybe even until halftime. No matter who the Bears play, the Titans need to look sharper.
Offensive Line
Four of the team's starting spots on the offensive line have been locked up, including LT Dan Moore, LG Peter Skoronski, C Austin Schlottmann, and RT JC Latham. The right guard spot is now in the hands of rookie Fernando Carmona, and the team has been pleased with his progress. But things are still unsettled here, with a bunch of other o-linemen becoming available on Sunday during massive roster cuts. The Titans want to see Carmona settle in even more, and they'll be watching him closely. Others, meanwhile, will be competing for their jobs against those on the team, and others across the league who are currently on other teams, for now.
Back-ups fighting for spots
The Titans, like the other teams across the NFL, must be down to 53 players by Sunday afternoon. I suspect roughly 51 spots have been solidified by now, and the decisions now are centered on whether the team carries an extra player at one position vs another. Injuries, of course, also play a factor – we saw that when Jaylen Harrell and Jaren Kanak suffered season-ending injures in the preseason opener. The Titans want to see guys competing for these final spots, and they want to see everyone stay healthy.
Special Teams
OK, so this is where the ties are broken in the hunt for roster spots. Guys who excel here enhance their chances of making the roster. The final preseason game provides another opportunity to players to prove their value. Plus, kicker Joey Slye has been worth watching in the preseason as well – he's a perfect 8-of-8 in the two preseason games. But, wouldn't it be nice seeing him come out for extra points instead?
