The Tennessee Titans need quarterback Cam Ward to show tangible progress Sunday at the Indianapolis Colts, because this is the game Locked On Titans host Tyler Rowland views as the offense’s best remaining chance to establish momentum before its schedule gets tougher.
Ward has thrown for 896 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions through five games for winless Tennessee. Rowland said the quarterback needs more than a competitive final score against Indianapolis; he needs an offense that can build confidence and create positive drives before the game script turns against it.
Rowland described the Colts’ defense as a favorable opponent for a Titans unit that has struggled to score because Indianapolis has not consistently generated pressure. He predicted a 31-17 loss but said reaching the 17-to-24-point range would at least give Tennessee evidence its offense can function.
His proposed remedy starts with a run-first script. Rowland advocated for heavier personnel, interior runs, play-action throws and screens early. He said shorter downs would take pressure off Ward and give the offense a chance to settle in. He also wants to see rookie wide receiver Carnell Tate and tight end Gunnar Helm involved over the middle rather than repeatedly testing Indianapolis’ outside cornerbacks.
The one disruptor Tennessee cannot ignore is Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner. Rowland said center Austin Schlottmann and guard Atonio Mafi may need to work together against Buckner, allowing the rest of the line to handle its assignments without sacrificing the run game that could make Ward’s afternoon manageable.
The Titans play at Indianapolis on Sunday, Oct. 18. A functional, run-supported performance from Ward would not erase a 0-5 start, but it would give Tennessee a needed offensive baseline heading into the following weeks.
Titans News and Notes
– Rowland said Tennessee’s defensive priority is limiting Colts running back Jonathan Taylor, whose success would create easier play-action opportunities for quarterback Daniel Jones. He also urged the pass rush to move Jones off his spot and capitalize on possible turnover chances.
– The secondary enters the week with safety Amani Hooker (concussion) limited in practice and safety Kevin Winston Jr. (quad) unable to practice on Wednesday. Rowland said the defense should simplify its middle-field coverage responsibilities against Colts pass catchers Josh Downs and Tyler Warren.
– Rowland also identified defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers as a player who must provide more pass-rush production while Jeffery Simmons continues to draw attention from opposing protections.
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