Titans Rookie QB Ward Looks to Build on Comeback Victory
The Tennessee Titans are hoping last week's dramatic comeback win over the Arizona Cardinals can be a springboard for their rookie quarterback Cam Ward.
Impressive Fourth Quarter Debut
Ward, the Titans' third-round pick, made his first NFL start in Week 5 against the Cardinals. Though the Titans fell behind 34-19 in the fourth quarter, Ward led an impressive rally, completing 13-of-18 passes for 193 yards and a touchdown in the final period.
"A lot of stuff is still stuff I can control, from where the ball should go every play and then some of the reaction stuff in the pocket," Ward said. "I didn't need to do as much movement, especially early in the season. I think it's stuff I'm getting better at, day in and day out, every game I play."
Translating Success to Full Games
The key now for Ward is translating that fourth-quarter success into a complete game performance. Through five starts, he has completed just 51.8% of his passes for 1,014 yards, 5 touchdowns and 4 interceptions.
Titans players have embraced the rookie, viewing him as a "little brother" figure. Head coach Mike Vrabel praised Ward's poise in the comeback win, which has the team confident in his future development.
"He just has a really good demeanor about him," Vrabel said. "He's got a really good command of the huddle, and I think the guys really respond to him."
Injury Updates
The Titans are also getting healthier ahead of Sunday's road matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders. Right tackle JC Latham, the team's first-round pick in 2024, is set to return after missing the last four games with a hip injury.
However, the Titans will be without kicker Joey Slye, who is dealing with an undisclosed injury. Veteran Matthew Wright has been signed to handle kicking duties against the Raiders.
Outlook Against the Raiders
The Titans (1-4) will look to build on their comeback victory as 3-point road underdogs against the also 1-4 Raiders. Analysts see opportunities for chunk plays against the Titans' defense, which could test Ward's progression.
"I'm definitely going into the game thinking that for sure," said Raiders tight end Michael Mayer, who could see an expanded role. "I'm going to prep for it, study for it. The decision's ultimately not mine, but I'm going to be ready for it."
TL;DR
- Titans rookie QB Cam Ward impressed in the 4th quarter comeback vs. Cardinals, but must translate that success to full games
- Titans getting healthier with RT JC Latham returning, but will be without K Joey Slye
- Titans look to build momentum as road underdogs vs. 1-4 Raiders, who see opportunities for big plays