CAPTAINS: The Titans have a few notable players who began their NFL careers with the Panthers, including quarterback Kerry Collins and linebacker Will Witherspoon, who were chosen as captains for the game along with former N.C. State standout Stephen Tulloch.
BIG TURNOVER: With 31 seconds remaining in the second quarter, the Titans defense came up with a big play to preserve its first-half shutout. From the Tennessee 16-yard line, Matt Moore completed a pass to Wallace Wright, but Titans cornerback Alterraun Verner knocked the ball loose, and linebacker Stephen Tulloch recovered to end the scoring opportunity.
COLLINS & COOK CONNECT: The Titans took a 7-6 lead in the fourth quarter when Kerry Collins hit second-year tight end Jared Cook for a 35-yard touchdown pass. The score capped a five-play, 83-yard drive.
MARIANI PROVIDES SPARK: On the Titans' touchdown drive in the fourth quarter, rookie wide receiver Marc Mariani provided a spark. He caught two passes on the drive, including one for 37 yards to set up a touchdown two plays later.
TITANS DENY TWO-POINTER: After the Panthers scored on a kickoff return to go up 12-7, they elected to try for a two-point conversion. However, running back Josh Vaughan was stuffed by the Titans defense on a rushing attempt up the middle.
KERN PINS PANTHERS: In the first quarter, Titans punter Brett Kern delivered a 55-yard punt that was downed by Donnie Nickey on Carolina's two-yard line. The Panthers subsequently went three-and-out. In the scoreless first half, Kern averaged 50.8 yards (46.8 net) on six punts.
