NASHVILLE – Sure, it might be too early to go head over heels over the Titans chances this season.
But don't tell that to the players.
Quarterback Marcus Mariota and running back Jeremy McNichols both somersaulted into the end zone for scores in the team's 22-17 preseason loss to the New England Patriots on Saturday night at Nissan Stadium.
The flips provided a pair of highlight-reel plays on a night when the Titans showed some encouraging signs in preseason game No.2, despite losing the lead late when back-ups entered the contest.
"Hat's off to those guys for leaping and stuff," a smiling A.J. Brown said of the flips. "That was pretty crazy. But I'm going to stay on the ground."
With a pair of preseason games and three weeks before the team's regular season opener in Cleveland, however, there's still plenty of work to be done for the Titans, who finished 9-7 a year ago and out of the playoffs during a year when the Texans and Colts from the AFC South advanced into the postseason.
At this point, the Titans want to keep building positive momentum, with plans to take flight in Cleveland during the regular season opener on September 8. On Saturday night, they made plays on offense and defense, but they also made some blunders.
Mariota completed 6-of-9 passes for 63 yards and a touchdown – an 11-yard strike to tight end Delanie Walker -- to give the Titans an early lead. Mariota added a two-point conversion in spectacular fashion, which made it 8-0.
On the play, Mariota flipped over the goalline after being hit by Patriots defensive back Duron Harmon, causing fans at Nissan Stadium to hold their collective breath. But Mariota was just fine, and his passer rating (123.8) in three series of action was good, too. Mariota played just one series in the preseason opener at Philadelphia.
"I was getting more grief from my teammates – they told me not to do it again," Mariota said of the leap, and landing. "I was trying to make a play. In the moment, I played instinctively and tried to get the points."
Walker's touchdown was one to celebrate – it was his first game back since Week One of last season, when he suffered a broken ankle in the regular season opener at Miami.
"It felt good just to be out there and get that old feeling back," Walker said. "I never doubted it."
Not to be outdone by Mariota's flip into the end zone, McNichols had an acrobatic score as well, as he flipped into touchdown territory on his 15-yard touchdown catch on a ball thrown by quarterback Ryan Tannehill, who replaced Mariota at the start of the second half. The score gave the Titans a 15-8 lead, and they expanded on that lead with a safety in the second quarter after New England was called for holding in the end zone.
On his score, McNichols dove from the two-yard line and crossed the goalline as he sailed out of bounds, an athletic move that drew smiles from everyone, including Mariota, who watched the rest of the game in a baseball cap after an early departure.
"I felt like I was in the air for 10 minutes," McNichols said. "I didn't know if I'd scored until I heard the crowd. My teammates were like: 'Good job, good job."
Like Mariota, Tannehill played well, completing 7-of-11 passes for 84 yards and a touchdown, with a passer rating of 117.2.
Mariota was happy with the way the first team offense ended the night, but he wants to see more consistency. The Titans went three-and-out on their first two drives.
"It wasn't real good to start off," Mariota said. "I thought we put together a nice drive at the end, but we have to come out better."
Patriots quarterback Tom Brady did not play in the game.
Instead, Brian Hoyer got the start – and a tough welcome into the game. Titans cornerback Logan Ryan intercepted Hoyer on the second play of the game, and the Patriots didn't get their first score until after Tennessee's first-team defense had left the field.
New England first scored on a one-yard touchdown run by Brandon Bolden in the first half. Running back Nick Brossette's one-yard touchdown run in the second half cut Tennessee's halftime lead from 17-8 to 17-15 in the third quarter.
The Patriots took a 22-17 late in the fourth quarter on a 23-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Jarrett Stidham to receiver Damoun Patterson, and the Titans couldn't rally.
Titans coach Mike Vrabel said the work against New England this week – the team practiced against the Patriots twice leading up to last night's game – was beneficial.
"It was great," Vrabel said. "To have a team come in here that is a proven winner, a proven organization, how they operate and how they do things. For us to be able to compete against them for two days and then play a game against them, is always going to be beneficial."
The Titans face the Pittsburgh Steelers in preseason game No.3 next Sunday at Nissan Stadium.
The Tennessee Titans take on the New England Patriots in the second preseason game Saturday night at Nissan Stadium. (Photos: Donald Page)

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) passes against the New England Patriots in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)











Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) flips into the end zone as he converts a 2-point conversion against the New England Patriots in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) flips into the end zone as he converts a 2-point conversion against the New England Patriots in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) passes as he is pressured by New England Patriots linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley (51) in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)

Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota warms up before a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

Tennessee Titans strong safety Kenny Vaccaro (24) sacks New England Patriots quarterback Brian Hoyer (2) in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) flips into the end zone as he converts a 2-point conversion against the New England Patriots in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) flips into the end zone as he converts a 2-point conversion against the New England Patriots in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans running back Jeremy McNichols (30) scores a touchdown as he is defended by New England Patriots linebacker Calvin Munson (48) in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)





NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans






NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans


NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

Tennessee Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) plays against the New England Patriots in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)

Tennessee Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) passes against the New England Patriots in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

New England Patriots offensive tackle Cedrick Lang (77) watches Tennessee Titans linebacker LaTroy Lewis (45) in the second half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

New England Patriots defensive back Duke Dawson (29) defends against Tennessee Titans wide receiver Kalif Raymond (14) in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)


Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) scores a 2-point conversion against New England Patriots defenders Calvin Munson (48) and Duron Harmon (21) in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)

Tennessee Titans inside linebacker Wesley Woodyard (59) takes his son, Greyson, 5, from the stands in the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)

New England Patriots quarterback Jarrett Stidham (4) calls a play against the Tennessee Titans in the second half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. The Patriots won 22-17. (AP Photo/James Kenney)

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Corey Davis (84) catches a pass as he is defended New England Patriots defensive back J.C. Jackson (27) in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)

Tennessee Titans running back Jeremy McNichols celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the New England Patriots in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)

Tennessee Titans tight end Delanie Walker watches from the sideline in the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)

Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota answers questions during a news conference after a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. The Patriots won 22-17. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel answers questions during a news conference after a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. The Patriots won 22-17. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

New England Patriots center Ted Karras (75) prepares to snap the ball against the Tennessee Titans in the second half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Jeremy McNichols #30 of Tennessee Titans talking to Titans Radio after the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Quarterback Marcus Mariota #8 of Tennessee Titans giving high fives to fans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Kayla Schoen/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Tackle Taylor Lewan #77 of Tennessee Titans signing autographs for fans after the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Kayla Schoen/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Tight end Cole Wick #89 of Tennessee Titans breaking a tackle during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Tight end Cole Wick #89 of Tennessee Titans breaking a tackle during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Linebacker Daren Bates #53 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Jeremy McNichols #30 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - August 17, 2019 - Running back Jeremy McNichols #30 of Tennessee Titans scores a touchdown during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Al Wagner/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - August 17, 2019 - Tight end Delanie Walker #82 of Tennessee Titans scores a touchdown during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Al Wagner/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Tight end Cole Wick #89 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Alison P. McNabb/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - August 17, 2019 - Running back Jeremy McNichols #30 of Tennessee Titans scores a touchdown during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Al Wagner/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - August 17, 2019 - Linebacker Daren Bates #53, Outside linebacker Sharif Finch #56, and Defensive tackle Isaiah Mack #79 of Tennessee Titans tackle the Patriots running back during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Al Wagner/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Defensive end Amani Bledsoe #95 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Jeremy McNichols #30 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Alison P. McNabb/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Jeremy McNichols #30 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Alison P. McNabb/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Outside linebacker Kamalei Correa #44 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Alison P. McNabb/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - August 17, 2019 - Quarterback Ryan Tannehill #17 of Tennessee Titans takes the snap from Center/guard Corey Levin #62 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Al Wagner/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Head coach Mike Vrabel of Tennessee Titans calling a two point conversion during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Kayla Schoen/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Jeremy McNichols #30 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Alison P. McNabb/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Jeremy McNichols #30 of Tennessee Titans stretches for a touchdown during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Kayla Schoen/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Head coach Mike Vrabel of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Kayla Schoen/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Cornerback Tye Smith #23 of Tennessee Titans completes a tackle during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Kayla Schoen/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - 100 year anniversary patch during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Quarterback Marcus Mariota #8 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Alex Barnes #39 of Tennessee Titans carries the ball during the second quarter of the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Kayla Schoen/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Offensive lineman Austin Pasztor #68 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Quarterback Ryan Tannehill #17 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Alison P. McNabb/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Safety Kenny Vaccaro #24 of Tennessee Titans celebrating after a tackle during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Jeremy McNichols #30 of Tennessee Titans running the ball during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Head coach Mike Vrabel of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Tennessee Titans Defensive line during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Dion Lewis #33 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Quarterback Logan Woodside #5 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Alison P. McNabb/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - August 17, 2019 - Running back Alex Barnes #39 of Tennessee Titans finds a hole during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Al Wagner/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Head coach Mike Vrabel of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Defensive end Matt Dickerson #92 of Tennessee Titans celebrating during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Defensive end Brent Urban #96 of Tennessee Titans talking after the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Quarterback Logan Woodside #5 of Tennessee Titans running the ball during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Outside linebacker Derick Roberson #50 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Linebacker David Long Jr. #41 of Tennessee Titans making a hit during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Jeremy McNichols #30 of Tennessee Titans running the ball during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Kicker/punter Austin Barnard #3 of Tennessee Titans punting during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Jeremy McNichols #30 of Tennessee Titans breaking a tackle during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Quarterback Logan Woodside #5 of Tennessee Titans running the ball during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Jeremy McNichols #30 of Tennessee Titans running down the field during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Defensive tackle Isaiah Mack #79 of Tennessee Titans celebrating during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Quarterback Marcus Mariota #8 of Tennessee Titans shakes hands with Tom Brady during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Linebacker David Long Jr. #41 of Tennessee Titans making a hit during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Linebacker David Long Jr. #41 of Tennessee Titans making a hit during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Linebacker Rashaan Evans #54 of Tennessee Titans walking off the field after the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Safety Kevin Byard #31 of Tennessee Titans talking after the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Head coach Mike Vrabel of Tennessee Titans shakes hands with Tom Brady during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Tackle Taylor Lewan #77 of Tennessee Titans signing autographs for fans after the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Kayla Schoen/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Quarterback Marcus Mariota #8 of Tennessee Titans shakes hands with Tom Brady during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Tennessee Titans Radio microphone after the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans
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The Tennessee Titans prepare to take on the New England Patriots in the second preseason game Saturday night at Nissan Stadium. (Photos: Donald Page)

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Linebacker Ukeme Eligwe #52 to the Tennessee Titans in the tunnel during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans



NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans vs the New England Patriots during preseason at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Tennessee Titans








































Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota warms up before a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel walks on the field before a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans running back Jeremy McNichols warms up before a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Anthony Ratliff-Williams warms up before a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Anthony Ratliff-Williams (83) leads a group of players onto the field to warm up before a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel watches from the sideline in the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)

Tennessee Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill warms up before a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady warms up before a preseason NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) passes against the New England Patriots in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)

Tennessee Titans punter Austin Barnard warms up before a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Taywan Taylor warms up before a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) talks with Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel before a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. Brady and Vrabel were teammates when Vrabel played for the Patriots. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

Tennessee Titans running back Dion Lewis warms up before a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Linebacker Wesley Woodyard #59 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans team in the tunnel during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Head coach Mike Vrabel of Tennessee Titans in the tunnel during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Quarterback Marcus Mariota #8 of Tennessee Titans warming up during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Kayla Schoen/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Head coach Mike Vrabel of Tennessee Titans in the tunnel during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Wide receiver Kalif Raymond #14 of Tennessee Titans and Wide receiver Darius Jennings #15 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Alison P. McNabb/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Akeem Hunt #35 of the Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Alison P. McNabb/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Linebacker Wesley Woodyard #59 of Tennessee Titans, Linebacker Jayon Brown #55 of Tennessee Titans, and Defensive lineman DaQuan Jones #90 of Tennessee Titans in the tunnel during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Cornerback Malcolm Butler #21 of Tennessee Titans before the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Wide receiver Adam Humphries #10 of Tennessee Titans running out of the tunnel during introductions during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Center Ben Jones #60 of Tennessee Titans, Tackle Jack Conklin #78 of Tennessee Titans, Cornerback LeShaun Sims #36 of Tennessee Titans, Cornerback Adoree' Jackson #25 of Tennessee Titans, and Cornerback Logan Ryan #26 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Wide receiver Adam Humphries #10 of Tennessee Titans running out of the tunnel during introductions during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Wide receiver A.J. Brown #11 of Tennessee Titans during the national anthem before the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Outside linebacker Harold Landry III #58 of Tennessee Titans and Running back Alex Barnes #39 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans shake hands with Tom Brady before the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Cornerback Logan Ryan #26 of Tennessee Titans with Tom Brady during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Quarterback Marcus Mariota #8 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Linebacker Daren Bates #53 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Running back Dion Lewis #33 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Caleb Jones/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Cornerback Logan Ryan #26 of Tennessee Titans and Quarterback Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots share a hug before the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Kayla Schoen/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Cornerback Logan Ryan #26 of Tennessee Titans during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - The Tennessee Titans shake hands with Tom Brady before the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17, 2019 - Cornerback Logan Ryan #26 of Tennessee Titans with Tom Brady during the preseason home game between the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Titans
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Titans players arrive at Nissan Stadium for Saturday night's preseason game against the New England Patriots. (Photos: Donald Page)


















