NASHVILLE – And, we're on to Week 15.
It's hard to believe only four games remain this season for the Titans, who have now officially been eliminated.
The Bengals will be in town on Sunday, at Nissan Stadium.
This weekend's Titans mailbag is in town and beyond …
Here's the link to submit questions: CLICK HERE.
Rod Fortner from Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Question: I'm a disappointed Fan also.....................but You gotta Love Tony Pollard...................he is the one bright spot on this dismal team.................He reminds Me of watching Emmit Smith back in the Dallas Cowboy days............the Team as a whole got LOTS of Problems but Tony Pollard isn't one of them...................hes the only reason I keep watching!..................thanks Jim for all You do!
Jim: Good to hear from you, Rod. Tony Pollard has been really good. He's a tough runner, and a tough young man. He needs just 63 yards to reach the 1,000-yard mark for the season, by the way.
Brandon Ivy from New Braunfels, Texas
Question: Hey Jim. Just started following the team about five years ago after retiring from the Marines. I'm a Titans fan through and through. I want your opinion on Levis. I think he just had a bad game against the Jags. He's shown really good development. I think he just needs more time. As a fan, I really don't want to play that QB roulette game that is the draft or free agency. I don't want to have to start over again with development, with sacks, with getting used to the system and players. We can't just keep drafting and buying our problems away. We have to be able to develop players and this takes time. I know others are impatient, but don't they understand that just cycling through QBs, will end up having us cycling through coaching staffs and Management staffs? This has the early makings of a good team, wouldn't you agree? Can you give a temperature of the feeling around the building about Levis? I hope you agree. Development is the key here. Lets stop sending our talent to other teams. Thanks.
Jim: Hey Brandon. Semper Fi. My dad was in the Marines. (He has a Devil Dog tattoo on his arm, in fact). Thank you for your service. I like Will Levis. He's a really nice young man, and I feel bad for him because of all the hate he's had to endure from a portion of the fan base since he's been here. I'm pulling for him to do well. But, at this point, I can't say with certainty he's "the guy," or even say he should be the guy. I need to see more, and what he's done to this point hasn't convinced me. I'm sure I'm not alone. Yes, he's getting better. And, I have no doubt he's going to put in the work. His teammates genuinely like him. And, there's no doubt time he'll get better in time. But … there are no guarantees. And, there's this question: Will there be a veteran QB next offseason who could step in and right the ship quicker next season? Is there a QB in the upcoming draft who could be a better prospect? (I'm more skeptical about this one). These are the questions that will have to be considered in deciding where the team goes from here at the QB position. And, the answers ultimately will be provided by folks above my pay grade.
Jonathan Delamar from Memphis, Tennessee
Question: Do you see why us PSL holders have to sell our tickets now? I own 5 seats, I haven't missed a game all year. I can't even find anyone to go with me when I'm paying. They'd rather watch red zone. Do you think the organization's first priority is to win? I truly don't think it is. When is the last time we've heard from Amy and Ran? One last question Jim: Do you think tomatoes and other produce can make it through security to throw on the field after we lose this week? Merry Christmas Jim
Jim: I hope I don't see you getting escorted out, Jonathan…
Scott Spurlock from Leander, Texas
Question: Hey bud, I know it's not your fault. And the team is doing the best they can, The coaches are doing everything they can to get it turned around. But this is pretty much the same team Vrabel lost, And if he can't keep the team and motivate the team. Well? I guess we can just remember that Belichick even had a bad 1st couple yrs.
My new found lack of being a Fan aka Fanatic of the team has made Sundays good no matter how this team or any other team does. save me a lot of busted remotes from being thrown across the room. It also allowed me to see other teams and I see some that are worse (Very Few) and some better. I got to ask bluntly does The head coach have any passion? I don't see it during games or after in the presser. He stumbles through excuses and , well I don't know.. Just how it seems. That guy up in Detroit you can see it. You can feel it. And even when they have a bad game it's a close game and fun to watch. At this point that is all I care about watching fun games. Hard fought games... Maybe I am just seeing things wrong. But Keep in mind I don't get to see what you do .. Behind the scenes. I Remember working at The University of Texas and Hear then DC Will Muschamp talking to Major Applewhite bad mouthing Mack Brown. the end of that Season Brown got canned and Muschamp went to Florida. so yeah behind the scenes stuff// Anyway I enjoy reading your stuff have a good-ern I'll keep on Ice for ya if yer ever down Austin Texas ways.. I have a friend owns 2 Bars. So Plenty of cold ones to go around. Take care
Jim: I appreciate the offer, Scott. I've had a few cold beers over the years, but only occasionally these days. And, I appreciate your opinions. You mentioned Dan Campbell, and how you can "see it" with him. Man, they have it going in Detroit right now. But let me ask you this: How much could you feel it with the Lions, and Dan Campbell, when they started 4-19-1 in his first 24 games as a head coach? A lot of Lions fans probably wanted him fired, too. Callahan has been a head coach for 13 games. He took over a team that had lost 18 of 24 games. No, it hasn't looked great so far. I understand the frustration from the fan base. But you really think it's all the first-year head coach's fault? I know I don't.
Tom Angora from Rochester, New York
Question: Jim. Thanks for reining me in on my last message. I grabbed the phone and started writing out of frustration because the Titans lost another game that it felt like they should win. I referred to Tim Kelly as Brian Kelly and quite honestly I was so upset at the time I am surprised that I didn't invoke the name of Kelly Osbourne.
In any event after getting a laugh over how ridiculous I sounded I will try to better articulate my thoughts. These guys are all professionals and I am sure they are giving it their all. They have families like I do and I am sure that's enough motivation for them to go out and play hard. So if fans are frustrated I am sure the players and coaches are profoundly more upset than we are. I guess it's time to tone it down and hope that they can find a way to make progress that will let them find some momentum for next year. Thanks for subtly putting things in perspective.
Jim: All good, Tom. I actually got a kick out of it. And we need a little humor in here. It's been a pretty dark place of late.
Brad Gober from The Woodlands, Texas
Question: It's been a few years since I wrote to you Jim.
Though their record is well below what most have expected it to be, it doesn't fully reflect the determination, effort, and potential this team holds. Quite a few of these games have demonstrated their grit and ability to compete at a high level, showcasing moments of brilliance that hint at a promising future.
One of the key aspects to admire is the team's perseverance. They have faced adversity head-on and continue to push forward, never backing down. This resilience is the foundation upon which great teams are built. The lessons learned from this season will undoubtedly fuel their growth and development, paving the way for future success.
Additionally, several individual performances have stood out, highlighting the raw talent and potential within the squad. These players have shown flashes of what they are capable of, and with continued support and development, they are poised to become key contributors to the team's success.
Moreover, the coaching staff has worked tirelessly to adapt and strategize, aiming to bring out the best in each player. Their dedication to nurturing this potential cannot be understated. It's clear that they believe in the team's capabilities and are laying the groundwork for a brighter future.
The Titans' fans have been lackluster and understandably so. It's been hard to watch most of the games and some of us may definitely have our doubts about continuing to pay to be able watch these games in the seasons to come.
In summary, while this season may not have gone as planned in terms of wins and losses, the Tennessee Titans are on the cusp of something great. Their resilience, talent, and the unwavering support from fans like you will drive them toward achieving their full potential in the seasons to come.
Let's continue to support and believe in our Titans as they work hard to turn this challenging season into the foundation for future victories. I mean, we have an entirely new coaching staff, several new players, and a completely new game plan on all sides of the ball. I know I wasn't alone is being overly hopeful for this season but I am also a realist… things take time to come together! Here's to next year! Sincerely, Brad.
P.S. if you could, tell the team to get out of their heads, the mistakes are done and can't be changed, but the future is theirs for the taking. Stop thinking so much and just go out there and play the game the love! Just stop thinking and play some football!
Jim: I like your optimism, Brad. Thanks for taking the time.
Carter Fisher from Cincinnati, Ohio
Question: Can you fire Brian Callahan and get Mike Vrabel back please?
Jim: Aren't you one of the many folks who wrote in calling for Mike to be fired this time last year?
Roger Gulley from Bethpage, Tennessee
Question: Hey Jim, First time on site. Not a question just a comment. I think people just have to realize that we are just not a good football team at present. Predictions from some at first of the year were not very good. People do a lot of bashing. We have basically a rookie QB. First year head coach and a lot younger players. We are just not as talented as a lot of teams. I think next year we will have offensive coordinator and Cally will be free to be a head coach. I see promise in Levis. Does anyone remember who the last QB to have three winning seasons in a row. I do. Don't give up on team or players to quick. Thanks
Jim: Good to hear from you, Roger.
Rob Haye from Ontario, Canada
Question: Hey Jim, so you were spot on when you said your mailbox was blowing up after that, whatever you want to call it showing on our home field.
But I think the TITANS actually did something right for a change, they LOST, which means at least they move up one over the JAGS in the 2025 draft.
Let's face it, why go on a run at this point, and win 3 or 4 games so you can say your a 7 win team. All that gets you is a middle of the road draft pick.
May as well, lose out, which nobody really wants to see, but if gets us a top 3 draft pick in 2025, we should have a bunch of options, based on our needs.
Another rookie QB makes no sense because we can't seem to develop them, so get a top O line men or Edge rusher, or trade back a couple of spots and get some draft capital, and build a team that's worthy of the TITAN baby blues.
There are going to be a few experienced, cap friendly QB's available next year, with a rebuilt O line, Fields out of Pitt or Rush out of Dallas come to mind.
Jim: Appreciate you sharing your opinion, Rob. And, I know you're not alone on your thought process. I've heard this from plenty in the fan base. It's just a shame this season has come to this, where some Titans fans are happy when the team loses. But I know the team created this by losing so many games.
Rylan Lynn from Wibaux, Montgana
Question: Hey Jim, hope you're having a good couple weeks before the holidays. Anyway, Will Levis has played much better these past few weeks, so it seems that he will be under center in 2025 as well. So my question is: What position is the most beneficial to target in the draft? Thanks for doing the mailbag, I always enjoy reading them.
Jim: Hope all is well, Rylan. I talked about Will earlier. He's definitely played better compared to the start of the year. He hasn't turned the ball over, he's looked more confident, and he's made better decisions. But I don't think he's convinced anyone of anything yet, not with four games to play. Heck, the team scored six points last Sunday and he was the quarterback. The Titans haven't made it out of the teens in four of the past five games. So, he needs to step it up, along with everyone else. I'll talk more draft when the season is over.
Michael Miles Sr. from LaVergne, Tennessee
Question: Jim hope things get better for you as the year nears an end. I am not going to complain to much, it just won't do any good. It has once again been a big let down to the Titan fan base. I as well as many more really do want the titans to be in the Super Bowl run at the end of the year. Been a long time since we went to one. What do the titans need to do to get players that can play a good game week in and week out? I mean we get them but we get rid of them, a few like A J and Henry. We need to find the right mix of coaches and players to put OUR fans back in OUR house and take those fans to their house like they come to ours. I know Jim I have to wait to see this happen, it won't be this year but does it look like it can happen in the next year? Thanks and Merry Christmas Jim hope you have a Great Holiday.
Jim: Happy Holidays, Michael.
Jeremy Rodriquez from Winchester, California
Question: Hey Jim. Glad I waited to email in. Reading your Tuesday Mailbag, lots of fans had the same question. What happened to the play calling in the red zone. I think Levis is getting better, I think his timing is getting better, I think he just had a bad game against the Jags. The defense will have its hands full this week with Cinci. Burrow is looking great and Chase could have an off the charts game. I am looking at the end of the season and what changes might be made, Special Teams Coach has to go and Offense Line Coach has to go. Yup I said it, Bill Callahan might have to take a pink slip. This O'line has not looked good, but because he is Dad, does he get the one year "show me something" benefit. Hope all is well, try and stay warm and dry. As always TITAN UP!!
Jim: I get the questions on the play-calling. When you don't score a touchdown, I should get them. And, I for one, wouldn't mind seeing Tony Pollard in some of those situations near the goalline. But it's not all play calling. Levis missed a wide open Okonkwo in the end zone on one possession, the normally reliable Nick Westbrook-Ikhine said himself he should have caught a touchdown that went off his hands, and Calvin Ridley ran out of bounds on what should have been a first and goal. All calls that should have been executed better in the red zone vs the Jaguars … Thanks for writing in again, Jeremy. I'll admit this on the way out: I continue to be surprised folks want to blame a renowned o-line coaching guru for all the mistakes from this o-line group.
Have a great weekend everyone!
