NASHVILLE – And we're on to Baltimore.
Heading into Week 4, the Titans are looking for a win, and a turnaround.
It won't be easy against Derrick Henry and the Ravens.
Can the Titans shock the world?
Well, we'll see.
For now, let's dive into the weekend mailbag…
Here's the link to submit questions: CLICK HERE.
Emma Fyfe from Glasgow, Scotland
Question: Hiya Jim. While Hooker's cleats were melting in the Tennessee heat, I was watching in 6C (around 43F?) drizzle! Not a question, just some observations. Perhaps I'm cursed to be an optimist but, while I don't see many wins for us on the docket this year, I'm not feeling as blue about the team as I did this time last year. We have lots of little nuggets of positivity.
Cam has been sacked only five times through three games. Hill is leading the league in tackles (yes, because our defense is on the field too long). We were one mistake away from winning our last two games as opposed to last year where we were getting steamrollered. The national media often praise Big Jeff, even if those comments come with the caveat that it's a shame he's on the Titans. And Titans gear is cheap in the UK because nobody is buying it, so more for me!
It's depressing being a Titans fan from 6pm to 9pm on a Sunday, but, as Andrew pointed out in this weeks mailbag, while Cam is not a rookie any more, he is only in his second year and Bryce Young is only just now beginning to look like an NFL QB. We have all the right pieces in place, and it will all come together... hopefully sooner rather than later.
Titan up!
PS. do you have any idea why our O-Line is still being talked about as a real problem in some national media outlets/by popular YouTube creators? Is it a case of them just not really paying attention to the Titans and remembering Cam got sacked a bunch last year?
Jim: Hi Emma. Good to hear from you, from Scotland. I know fans are frustrated, and some are mad. I think a part of that is because of the way the team has lost the last two weeks, letting winnable games slip away. It's a bottom-line business, the NFL, and there's a winner and a loser each week. This time last year the team was coming off back-to-back blowout losses, by two touchdowns vs the Rams (33-19) and by three touchdowns vs the Colts (41-20). In Week 4 the team lost 26-0 to the Texans. Now that was bad, bad football. The 2026 Titans have lost in the closing seconds the past two weeks. Both losses, yes, but at least these games have been competitive (other than that debacle against the Jets). With that said, the Titans are an 11.5 underdog against the Ravens. If the Titans play like they did against the Jets in Week 1, this game will get ugly Sunday. But you're right – there are signs of improvement. You mentioned Cam has only been sacked five times in three games. This time last year, he'd been sacked 15 times through three games. Hill was named NFL Rookie of the Month – he's a good one. Simmons has been outstanding once again. But with loss after loss after loss, it's hard to find reasons to be excited, and I get it. This team needs to start winning games – heck, it hasn't won back-to-back games since the 2022 season, which is crazy. As for the o-line, the group needs to keep doing its job, and the unit took a hit losing Fernando Carmona and Jackson Slater. It's next man up. Have a great weekend Emma and stay warm!
Richard Boudreaux from Miami, Florida
Question: Dear Jim. I am sick and tired of the Cam hate. I read that his sister posted that his family is receiving threats and other ugly comments on social media. These so called "fans" need to get a life seriously. And if you are mad that you bet on a game and lost money, then that is on you. I don't know if Cam will read this but I want him to know that we in Miami have his back and love him. He is a role model to many and a genuinely great young man. Football is not life and death. But more to the point, one of your writers wrote in last week noting that many now successful quarterbacks got off to a rough start only to turn it around and become stars including winning Super Bowls. It remains to be seen if Cam will be added to that list, but it got me thinking, and so I cane across these numbers: Josh Allen through 20 games:74.4 QB rating, 3,727 passing yards, 20 TD's, 19 interceptions, 56.3 percentage completions. Cam Ward through 20 games: 80.3 QB rating, 3,673 passing yards, 17 TD's, 8 interceptions, 60.2 completion percentage. Just saying . . . Keep your head up Cam. Haters going to hate.
Jim: Thanks for taking the time, Richard.
Troy Rogers from Sunland, California
Question: Hey Jim, First, thanks for all you do to keep us informed about the two tone blue. I was an original Titan with season tickets for 23 seasons. Since I've relocated to the West Coast my Titans have gone 12-49. I understand the high and lows of being a fan. I remember growing up that rookie QBs always had to ride behind a veteran to learn the NFL, but now it seems that a promising young athlete has to go out and learn on the job and then get ripped by everyone for making mistakes. If you look at this season we took the Eagles to the last play to lose and then the Bears spanked them. Then we take the Giants down to the end to lose. But we were in those games and Cam Ward is learning on the job so maybe the pundits should cut him some slack and try to be better fans. Anyway thanks Jim and GO DODGERS!!!
Jim: Hey Troy. Appreciate it. I can confirm your numbers are right on the last 61 games. Not good. I will say I'm noticing a little more optimism in here compared to the Tuesday mailbag. I hope that doesn't get blown up on Sunday. Go Dodgers!
Jordan Dobbins from Denver, Colorado
Question: Hey Jim. I wrote in a few months ago when the new uniforms dropped to discuss my massive displeasure with them (which btw I appreciate your response on). For the record my feelings haven't changed. What also hasn't changed though is my love for this team. So with that I'm here to try and pump just a bit of sunshine even though most don't feel the same way.
This team hasn't looked pretty (and I don't mean the uniforms this time). The defense can't get off the field on 3rd down no matter the distance. The offense, primarily the passing game, has only looked decent in the 2nd half but only after being completely stonewalled in the 1st. There have been multiple special teams miscues in both the kicking and receiving game to give the opponent short fields. There is not a consistently good part of the football team. That being said, they are only TWO plays away from being 2-1! That would currently make the Titans the number one team in the AFC South! That would be the first time they've had an above .500 winning percentage in 4 years! Again, the Titans have A LOT to clean up so they're not in these situations but I don't remember the last time in back to back weeks (or in general for that matter) where I felt they were legitimately in the game till the very end and weren't playing in true garbage time catch up.
This current iteration of the team hasn't been able to hunker down and finish in the last minute but it's basically their first time being in the situation. I know they're professionals so I agree expectations should be high but if the level of expectation is perfection when doing something the first time in the NFL then we as regular fans and individuals need to do some self reflection.
I'll be upfront in saying I expect the big brute wearing 22 to run all over the Titans this Sunday in Baltimore. But IF the Titans are in a similar situation they've been in the last 2 weeks (hopefully along with better play in all 3 phases) then I'm willing to say we should have patience. I'm on social media a decent amount and listen to enough podcasts to know no one likes to implement patience but it's also the only thing I hear these same fans talk about in the offseason with this team after rotating through a good amount of coaches, GMs, and QBs in a relatively short time frame by most NFL standards.
So I know the NFL moves fast, in more ways than one, but for at least one more week when it comes to the QB, the defense, and everything under the sun…keep your powder dry and just Titan the Hell Up!
With that out of the way I'll comment and say I can't wait to see Big Jeff and King Henry go at it against each other but also leave you with a question. What is one area you think will show the biggest improvement this week either given the match up or maybe something seen in practice? Corner/secondary? QB? WR? Punt game?
Jim: Hey Jordan. The Henry-Simmons battle on Sunday is going to be fun to watch. I know it's Ravens vs Titans, but Henry and Simmons are specimens, guys with a lot of pride. As much as they respect one another, neither guy is going to back down just because they're buddies. As for what needs to improve, yeah, special teams needs to be better. I also want to see the team be more aggressive on offense, especially early. The coaches need to prove they trust Cam, and turn him loose more. That's just my opinion. I think the five three-and-outs and one first down in New York still has be befuddled.
Alex Legall from Tampa, Florida
Question: Jim: I have a question/comment about media coverage. Incidentally I have found you for all the time I have followed you to be balanced, fair and fact based.
Unfortunately, without calling names, it just seems as if there are way too many contributors, "reporters" and others that are more interested in peddling sensationalism and click bait. You mentioned in a previous post Steve McNair criticism in his 5th years - meaning patience is key. Spot on.
The vaunted Josh Allen through 20 games statistically was not great - one can argue Ward has protected the ball better and has been more accurate. I saw the stat on SNF of most pick sixes thrown (33 I think by Stafford) and the others on that list included Manning and I believe Aaron Rodgers meaning they all made mistakes. But you have to be in the position to make those mistakes which Ward has not had a lot of. Why don't those reporting on the team actually provide context behind what they are seeing with the Titans?
No question that was a terrible throw but I have seen lots of other QBs make worse decisions than that so it has to do with experience and risk tolerance among other things. Decision to try the FG (59 yds) - coin flip. Distance was there. Based on their offensive output if Slye has the distance, why not try it? The questioning of that decision to me is a head scratcher as many wanted to be critical of Saleh.
I find the team to be a) playing hard b) seem to be more disciplined c) improving week by week d) young, inexperienced and needing to learn how to win - which all teams have to figure over time.
But it seems as if so many that we have to listen to that cover the Titans are lazy in their commentary and analysis with a bias towards sensationalism since patience does not sell or get clicks. Don't get me wrong - I am not happy with them losing all the time - but what do we want? Bench a #1 pick for a backup after 20 games? Fire the coach or coordinators? How has that worked out for us so far?
I heard words like "egregious" and "reckless" casually thrown around which I think is a disservice to the team and does not actually represent what has been happening. Sadly there is more of that kind of language and coverage which simply doesn't help the team, educate fans or provide unique insight.
I long for the days when reporters etc actually were balanced and tried to educate as opposed to pushing an agenda.
Jim: Hey Alex. It's a "hot take" world we're living in. If you're not insulting people or calling them out, then you're considered soft, I guess. Unfortunately, that's the world we live in these days.
Brad Crew from Richmond, Virginia
Question: Jim, as always, I will keep this short but sweet. As a fan of the team/organization since I was 14 (52 years old now) I am curious if anyone has spoken to Cam about being more professional on the sidelines? The scenes of him smashing tablets makes him look childish. Anyway, let's go Cam! I'm still pulling for you and the team to turn a corner!
Jim: I haven't been involved in any conversations with Cam about the broken tablets.
Leon Johnson from Paragould, Arkansas
Question: Jim, this is my second time to write. I am befuddled to say the least! It is becoming clearer and clearer this is something glaringly missing in this franchise. And I am not speaking as a novice, I have followed the franchise since 1960 at 9 years old. There is not much I have missed in 66 years as a fan. I was born and raised in Houston. Moved yo Arkansas 2000 to pastor a church. When the Oilers moved to Nashville I remained a faithful fan and suffered a lot of ridicule, but I could never get into the Texans. I used to purchase the NFL Sunday Ticket every season, but after last years debacle, and I didn't even purchase it this year. I bought it for one reason, to watch the Titans. But this year was different I am just wore out watching the same boring and mediocrity the Titans put on the field Sunday-in and Sunday-out. With the new stadium it just adds more embarrassment to me being a fan. I bought my first season ticket the year they drafted Earl Campbell. I just can't wrap my mind how one franchise can continue season after season, and never get any better. Thanks Jim for letting a long-time fan vent. i have seen this same rerun too many times. Have a good day Jim
Jim: I hear ya, Leon. And, I completely understand why fans are frustrated, and mad. This franchise's football team has been bad for too long. The Titans need to start winning games, and become relevant again.
Rick Floores from La Vernia, Texas
Question: Why, why do we play every first half on offense like we are scared? Run, run pass punt. By the second half down multiple points we attack. Four former head coaches on staff and we can't figure it out. Come out first quarter like we are down 21. We try to run to set up the pass, not working. Let's pass and set up the run! You want to be violent, Attack, go after the defense. Is Cam the man? Take the lease off and let's see! Titan Up, now!
Jim: I hear ya, Rick.
Alan Walker from Walland, Tennessee
Question: Hey again, Jim. I'm certainly not a football wizard, but things seem to improve in the second half when the play calling is less conservative. Why not open things up from the first kickoff instead of run, run, short pass, and punt? I think this offense is better than what we are seeing on Sundays. IMO, nothing helps a run game better than a good passing game, and vice versa. What's the worse thing that could happen? We lose?
Jim: I think you and Rick would get along well…
Ryan Jones from Dover, Arkansas
Question: Hey Jim. While Cam Ward is a good QB, it is a fact that he has been extremely struggling recently. Do you think it would be a good idea to rest Cam for a game or two and let backup QB Mitchell Trubisky start? He has proven that he is good after last year's week 18 4 touchdown performance. I feel like this move would give time to Cam to recuperate and find out what he is doing wrong, while letting Mitch have a chance. Cam has a lot of potential, and starting a veteran QB who even has playoff experience might show him the way. Do you feel like that is a possibility?
Jim: I do not endorse benching Cam. The team needs to find out everything it can about him, and 20 games isn't enough. Maybe he'll prove he's not the guy? Maybe he'll prove he just needed more time, and will become a star? You're not going to find any of this out with him sitting on the bench.
Luke Jones from Lamar, Arkansas
Question: I have watched professional football for a long time, and can see when a QB just isn't there. Cam Ward's last win in this program was last December, and I don't believe that will change with him in charge. Tennessee recently picked up a veteran QB with playoff experience Mitchell Trubisky, and I believe it is time to move on from Cam to Trubisky or get a new younger QB. My question is how long will it take this organization to recognize that Cam Ward is not their future?
Jim: See above.
Alf Ritter from Munich, Germany
Question: Hi Jim. Thanks for everything you do for the fanbase - in particular during challenging times.
A few comments instead of a question:
My approach towards enjoying the games this season is to celebrate every stop on defense and every first down on offense.
However, if the first first-down celebration comes within the two-minute warning of the first half (Giants gane) - a win is probably not in the cards.
However, it was good to see the defensive improvement in week 3!
Cam Ward: We shall be aware that this is a young man in the first half of his 20s. While he is developing - the whole world is watching and everybody has an opinion.
Remembering that first drive in last season's game at the Jaguars: He played with confidence and the game slowed down for him. He developed during the season and got the job done against a good Jaguars defense which played for playoff seeding.
That gives me hope that he has more successful development in front of him (e.g., seeing the open receivers better and not throwing to blanketed receivers).
Resetting the QB position every 2 years will not help towards celebrating more first downs or even scores.
I wish him and the whole team success during the transition and I hope for better results as the season progresses!
Jim: Good to hear from you again, Alf. Man, enough of these challenging times, right?
I appreciate you taking the time.
Bob Easley from Austin, Texas
Question: Well, Jim and all Titan friends, what a tough start to our season!
There seemed to be a consensus in the Tuesday mailbag that the Titans should be 2-1 instead of 0-3, and I agree. So, let's take heart that after the 1st game debacle where we weren't even competitive against the lowly Jets, we actually should have won the next two games. We were so close and just need to keep getting better!
Now, forgive my insane optimism, let's consider that a 9-8 record could possibly make the playoff's or could even win our division. To achieve this, we must go 9-5 the rest of the way. Yep, even I have trouble believing that, especially since our Offensive Line - which has outperformed all expectations, will be without Carmona and his backup Slater for the foreseeable future👎❗️
How can we go 9-5 the rest of the way is the question…
Well, first we need to beat the Texans and Colts twice and the Jags at least once. Second, since we lost two winnable games, we must steal a couple of wins from two other opponents who are projected to dominate us. Upsets happen weekly in the NFL. That's 7 wins, now we need two more😃✅. To get those, let's remember how improved Cam was last year during the last half of the season - so we need to keep improving - getting turnovers while limiting our own turnovers AND take advantage of every break that comes our way.
I know, it's not likely, I'm not betting on this in Vegas, but I think that once we get a taste of victory, we may be hard to stop.
And one last thing, it's been a very dry spell for many years, but that's not on Coach Saleh or his coaching staff - they just got here! Let's see how this season plays out✅
Jim: This probably qualified as my most optimistic email of the week! This team needs to figure out how to win these games, Bob. The Titans had no business losing to the Giants, and as I said in here the Tuesday after the Philly loss, I'm not so sure the Eagles are all that either – and that was before they got blown out on Monday night against Case Keenum and the Bears. This Sunday will provide the toughest test to date. Buckle up.
Baldemar Infante from Corpus Christi, Texas
Question: Hello Jim, just like everyone else, frustrated, angry, annoyed. What I don't understand is why on earth do they keep trying to run the ball up the middle when they dont have an O line to open gaps? And, why oh why can't they have more Play Action Pass? Roll Cam out to spread the field. They need a bigger back to with stand the hits and keep going. Tks Jim
Jim: Hey Baldemar. Members of the offensive staff have talked this week about doing more to help Cam, and the offense, early in games. We'll see what that looks like on Sunday.
Warnis Hightower from Rosharon, Texas
Question: Hello Jim. I know the subject of Cam Ward has dominated the mail lately. So here's my take. Coaches need to take Cam aside and work more on his footwork. When he throws the ball a lot of time he seems to be in an awkward position. Also he has a problem leading his receivers. He needs to work more with his receivers on his long passes..maybe after regular practice has ended, You know get in more accord with them. If not for his bad play and the poor play calling, the team would likely be 2 and 1 at trhis point. Thanks for allowing me to give my input for what it's worth.
Jim: I agree that it needs to improve, Warnis. He gets sloppy at times with his technique.
Todd Cookingham from Houston, Texas
Question: Hey Jim. You may remember me ,49 year fan here.from NY. Only kid wearing powder blue in Giant country.quick comment. Then a question.wow 3 weeks in could easily be 2and 1.Remember McNair sat a whole year....you know where I'm going. The young man should sit. Let a veteran hit the wide open titan recievers.let him see the game from. The sideline. He seems to not no when to run.This is not just sunday.unlike Tanny who would never run out of bounds a yard short on 3rd down.I see a team that could win now.Dont you? It's not right the team should suffer like this.For one man's loss of touch loss of decision making and starting to lose the our trust.Now my biggest issue is not the team but the fans in Nashville. If they had not built a new stadium I would love to see them go where people want a team.Who are these people that sell best seats to traveling fans.Then the fans there are not even engaged. I yell louder at Dave and busters..worst fans in the league sorry guys.where are the people from Tennessee? Last question is there any way to prevent this in New stadium.? Can you hold back those who sell to other teams .I'm sure we can see these traders buy the seats filled with green or blue and red.even teams that don't travel well out cheer our fair-weather fan in Nashville.I understand winning can turn that.But these fans don't know how or when to cheer!!! I will turn 60 in 2027 50 years.. Beat cancer last year twice.I believe this team can win now.sit the young man please.for his sake also.Alway loyal....always believing Love ya blue. Titan up!
Jim: I remember, Todd! We need to get you here for some more games! I guess winning would convince some fans not to sell their tickets, but who knows? Some of them aren't built like you are. Hang in there.
Fernando Munoz from Apodaca Nl Mexico
Question: Por que no han entrado coogan y restrepoooooo??????
coogan es el liniero que le hace falta a carmona y restrepo sabe colocarse donde lanza cam para abrir las lineas defensivas.
Jim: Hola, Fernando. Ahora que Carmona y Slater están fuera, hay una vacante. Sin embargo, no estoy seguro de que sea para Coogan. Él solo tiene que seguir trabajando, igual que Restrepo. Cuídate.
Michael Miles Sr. from LaVergne, Tennessee
Question: Hi Jim I love reading your mailbag each week. On Tuesday mailbag you told one of the people you thought we had a chance of winning some of the remaining games. I hope you are right but I don't see a lot of teams we have left to play that we can play to win against if we continue to play like we have in the first three games. Not trying to be a person that disagrees but which ones do you feel we can win? I say maybe the Browns and possibly the Texans but which do you think it could be?
Jim: Hey Michael. This team has lost 49 of 61 games since the middle of the 2022 season. With all due respect, I'm not going to sit here and start projecting which games the team will win now. This team has shown the past two weeks it is good enough to come close to winning games. But it's going to have to prove it can do it. The Browns are now 3-1, by the way.
Have a great weekend everyone!
