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NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Following the Titans’ 24-17 defeat against the New York Jets on Sunday, head coach Brian Callahan seemed visibly frustrated with quarterback Will Levis, who once again made a critical error that contributed to their loss.
During the broadcast, Callahan was seen shouting, “What the f— are you doing?!” at Levis as he left the field after a significant fumble deep in Jets territory. Although Callahan expressed regret for this moment being aired on TV — not wanting to put the blame on a single player — he did not regret the emotions he showed after the play.
“I don’t regret my feelings about it and how I felt in the moment,” Callahan stated on Monday. “Generally, I’m pretty composed. But that instance just set me off, and I’m human like everyone else. There are times I lose my mind.”
The fumble occurred just a week after Levis threw an errant pass that led to an interception returned for a touchdown, which was part of the Titans’ 24-17 loss to the Chicago Bears.
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Despite vowing to learn from his previous mistake, Levis made another unnecessary error that cost the Titans valuable points and momentum against New York.
“He’s an adult, and he should know better,” Callahan commented after Sunday’s game. “It really irritated me that he blew three points for us in a game where we could have really used them.”
Ill-timed mistakes that turn the ball over become even more critical when the defense struggles to generate
Titans Coach Brian Callahan Expresses Frustration with QB Will Levis as Team Struggles in 0-2 Start
The Tennessee Titans are facing a challenging start to the 2023 NFL season, currently holding a disheartening 0-2 record. In the wake of these struggles, Titans offensive coordinator Brian Callahan has openly expressed his frustration regarding the performance of rookie quarterback Will Levis. This article dives into the key issues surrounding the Titans’ offense, the impact of Levis’ play, and what this means for the team’s future prospects.
Current State of the Titans
The Titans began their season with high hopes, but two consecutive losses have raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. The team’s inability to effectively move the ball and score touchdowns has been a glaring issue. As the season progresses, understanding the dynamics at play—especially regarding Will Levis—has become imperative.
Overview of the 2023 Season So Far
- Loss to the New Orleans Saints: The Titans fell short in a closely contested game, losing 22-16.
- Loss to the Los Angeles Chargers: Another nail-biter, with the Titans suffering a 30-27 defeat.
Will Levis: The Rookie Quarterback’s Performance
Will Levis stepped into the starting role with plenty of potential but has struggled to transition from college to the NFL. Here’s a breakdown of his performance so far:
| Statistic | Week 1 vs. Saints | Week 2 vs. Chargers |
|---|---|---|
| Passing Yards | 175 | 210 |
| Touchdowns | 1 | 1 |
| Interceptions | 2 | 1 |
| Completion Percentage | 58% | 61% |
Coaching Concerns
Brian Callahan’s frustration is primarily due to Levis’ inability to execute the game plan effectively. While rookie quarterbacks often face growing pains, Callahan has highlighted specific areas for improvement:
- Decision Making: Levis has made questionable throws that have put the Titans in difficult positions.
- Field Vision: The young quarterback needs to improve his ability to read defenses and locate open receivers.
- Consistency: Maintaining a consistent level of performance is crucial as the Titans look to turn their season around.
Impact on the Team Dynamics
The Titans’ offensive struggles are creating ripple effects throughout the team. Here are some key points affecting team dynamics:
1. Team Morale
As the losses pile up, team morale can begin to wane. Veteran players are looking to Levis for leadership, and his performance impacts their confidence.
2. Coaching Strategy
With Levis at the helm, Callahan may need to adjust his offensive strategy to fit the quarterback’s strengths and weaknesses. This may involve simplifying the playbook or focusing on short, quick passes to build Levis’ confidence.
3. Fan Reactions
Frustration from fans is palpable. Many are calling for a reassessment of the quarterback position, citing Levis’ early struggles. The Titans’ fanbase is passionate, and ongoing losses could lead to increased pressure on the coaching staff and management to make changes.
Benefits of Patience with Will Levis
Despite the frustrations, there are several benefits to allowing Levis to continue developing as the starting quarterback:
- Long-Term Development: Successful quarterbacks often require time to adjust to the NFL. Patience can lead to a more polished player in the future.
- Experience: Each game offers invaluable experience for Levis, which could pay off later in the season as he learns from his mistakes.
- Team Growth: As Levis matures, the offensive line and receiving corps will also grow accustomed to his style, potentially improving overall team cohesion.
Practical Tips for Improvement
For Levis to improve his performance, several practical steps could be beneficial:
1. Film Study
Studying game film can help Levis identify his mistakes and learn from them. Understanding what defenses are doing and how to adjust is crucial.
2. Work on Mechanics
Focusing on throwing mechanics and footwork will enhance accuracy and decision-making under pressure.
3. Build Chemistry with Receivers
Levis should spend extra time with his receiving corps, working on timing and routes to ensure seamless execution in games.
Case Studies: Rookie Quarterback Turnarounds
Looking at other rookie quarterbacks who faced early struggles can provide insight into potential outcomes for Levis:
| Quarterback | Year | Initial Season Record | Later Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Josh Allen | 2018 | 5-6 | Pro Bowl MVP (2020) |
| Lamar Jackson | 2018 | 6-1 | Super Bowl Champion (2023) |
| Justin Herbert | 2020 | 6-9 | Multiple Pro Bowls (2021, 2022) |
First-Hand Experiences of Titans Players
Veteran players like Derrick Henry and Kevin Byard have shared their insights regarding the importance of supporting Levis during his growth:
- Derrick Henry: “He’s a young guy and we need to rally around him. We remember how hard it was for us at the beginning.”
- Kevin Byard: “It’s about building trust. We have to trust him and he has to trust us.”
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Titans?
As the Titans prepare for their next game, several questions loom large:
- Will Brian Callahan adjust the offensive scheme to better suit Levis?
- Can the Titans’ defense step up to alleviate some pressure off the young quarterback?
- How will fan support impact the team as they strive to get their first win?
All eyes will be on the Titans’ next matchup, providing an opportunity for Will Levis and the coaching staff to make necessary adjustments and turn the tide of their season.
