Titans coach Brian Callahan sees positives going into matchup with Rams
Tennessee Titans (0-1) look to bounce back from a mistake-filled opener when they host the Los Angeles Rams (1-0) on Sunday in Nashville. Tennessee’s defense forced four turnovers in Denver but still lost 20-12 due to penalties, drops, and an inconsistent offensive line. The Rams, meanwhile, opened their season with a 14-9 win over Houston behind a strong defensive performance and a milestone game from veteran QB Matthew Stafford.
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Tennessee Titans Can Win If…
- Cam Ward finds rhythm. The rookie QB completed just 12 of 28 passes in his debut and took six sacks. If he cleans up timing and his receivers cut the drops, the Titans can compete.
- The offensive line improves. Allowing pressure and failing to establish the run (Pollard just 60 yards in Week 1) won’t work against a Rams front that thrives on disruption.
- Defense keeps creating turnovers. Four takeaways last week kept them alive despite offensive struggles — that opportunistic play must continue.
“He’s earned the right to have control,” coach Brian Callahan said of Ward. “It’s something you have to earn.”
Los Angeles Rams Can Win If…
- Defense repeats Week 1 form. Nate Landman led the charge with 10 tackles and a forced fumble; the Rams defense allowed just 9 points and no touchdowns to Houston.
- Matthew Stafford stays steady. Now past 60,000 career passing yards, Stafford’s leadership and ability to manage tempo will be key against Tennessee’s pass rush.
- They control the trenches. With both guards banged up, the Rams must still hold firm up front to keep Stafford upright and create some balance in the run game.
“There’s a reason he went No. 1 overall,” Rams coach Sean McVay said of Ward. “He’s just one of those guys that’s kind of a gamer.”
Key NFL Betting Trends
Category | Titans | Rams |
---|---|---|
Record | 0-1 (lost 20-12 at DEN) | 1-0 (beat HOU 14-9) |
QB Notes | Ward: 112 yds, 6 sacks, 8 drops by WRs | Stafford: 245 yds, 1 TD, milestone |
Turnovers Forced | 4 takeaways vs Denver | 2 takeaways vs Houston |
Penalties | 13 for 131 yards | Disciplined in opener |
Injury Watch | WR drops + OL issues | Guards Dotson & Avila (ankle, Q) |
The Leans
Main Pick: Rams -3 (Spread)
Projected Final Score: Rams 23, Titans 16
- Moneyline Angle: Rams ML → Veteran QB + proven defense over rookie growing pains
- Total Points Angle: Under 41.5 → Titans’ offense still sputtering, Rams content to grind out wins
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Best Bet Box
Best Bet: Rams ML + Under 41.5 (Parlay)
Confidence: ★★★★☆
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