TAMPA, Fla. – The Titans face the Buccaneers in the preseason opener here on Saturday night.
Here's a look at six things to watch in the contest:
Cam's Debut
We've seen quarterback Cam Ward in training camp, and then in a joint practice here on Thursday. Now, we'll all get our first look at the first overall pick in his NFL preseason debut at Raymond James Stadium. The Titans want to see Ward make good decisions, with continued improvement. So, how much will Ward play? Probably not much, a series or two, depending on how long possessions go.
The O-Line
The Titans won't put Ward out there without being able to protect him with the best they've got up front. So, the first-team offensive line will play as long as Ward is out there. That means we'll get our first look left tackle Dan Moore, and JC Latham on the right side, along with everyone in between. Corey Levin will continue to work at center. These guys want to help set a tone early.
The Rookie Receivers
The Titans know what they have in Calvin Ridley, Van Jefferson and Tyler Lockett. So, receivers behind them will get a longer look, and an opportunity to prove themselves further. I was really impressed with what I saw from Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike in Thursday's joint practice, when Xavier Restrepo also had a good day. All these guys and more will get chances in the preseason opener.
Gunnar Helm and the Tight Ends
There's a reason why coaches put rookie tight end Gunnar Helm No.2 on the depth chart (behind Chig Okonkwo). Helm has proven it in camp, and he really showed up in the practice against the Buccaneers. I'd seen Helm make plays back in Nashville, but he took it up a notch in Thursday's practice. Helm will look to continue the momentum on Saturday night, and expect tight ends David Martin-Robinson, Josh Whyle, Thomas Odukoya and Drake Dabney to get a lot of work, too.
Defensive Opportunities
There aren't many starting jobs up for grabs on this team, but inside linebacker is one of them – that's where James Williams Sr. is trying to solidify things in his competition with Cedric Gray, Otis Reese IV and others. Williams has a chance to start locking some things down with solid play. A lot of back-ups will be on the field in this game, trying to earn roster spots, and opportunities.
Return Game
I watched the Ravens preseason game on Thursday night, when I saw rookie wide receiver LaJohntay Wester escape for an 87-yard punt return for a touchdown. I thought to myself: That's how a young player earns a job. Well, the Titans are looking for players to emerge in the return game themselves. It could be a veteran, it could be a rookie, or it could be a combination of the two. Players like James Proche II, Chimere Dike, Jha'Quan Jackson, Tyjae Spears, Xavier Restrepo and others are all in the mix under new special teams coordinator John Fassel.
