Tomorrow is the much anticipated season opener for our boys in blue! The game sets up as a potentially classic smash-mouth struggle between AFC South rivals. The Jags bruising one-two punch of MJD and Fred Taylor against the Titans staunch defensive front. The Titans new (and unproven) one-two punch of masher Lendale White and speedster Chris Johnson against the Jags always strong D-line. There is also, of course the rivalry that has developed between these two teams that has heated over the years that always makes this a spicy matchup. One that any true football fan should enjoy watching.
There is also the issue of Vince Young's development. Coaches and teammates have been overly supportive of VY throughout camp and the pre-season, one in which the first team offense failed to score any touchdowns. If VY can have a productive game, and minimal mistakes, the Titans have a good chance. The defense should be good enough to keep our boys in the game. However, if Garrard continues playing like he did last season, he could make things very interesting. Garrard is no longer the sleeper he was last year, though, so I think our defense will be able to contain him.
Of course there is the relationship between Fisher & Del Rio. They are both USC products, but that is where their common bond ends. They have different personalities and completely different approaches to handling their teams. While both are defense-first kind of guys, Fisher is more likely to defend a player (see Pacman, Reynoldo Hill, even VY to some extent) or coach when on field and/or off field adversity strikes. Del Rio will turn people over much more quickly. Both find anything they can to use as bulletin board material. These two guys are not on each others' Christmas card list.
Then there is the tragic story of Jags offensive lineman Richard Collier, who was shot several times and has suffered possibly life threatening injuries. Some say this will rally the Jags and give them even more incentive to come out focused and driven and ready to perform like the playoff team most have predicted for them. On the other hand, some feel that this tragedy will serve as a distraction for the Jags, with the players' thoughts being on their stricken teammate. We will find out soon enough.
With story lines aplenty, this will be a good old fashioned smash-mouth football game. This game will set the tone for the early season run. The Titans have a few winnable games coming up and an opening win against a tough and talented Jaguars team would be a huge boost moving forward.
Look for a defensive struggle and the Titans pulling out a close win in their home opener. 21-17 Titans.
Keywords: Tennessee Titans
