Tony Pollard delivered, but Cleveland got more explosive plays from its young receivers while Tennessee's quarterback, pass rush and other draft investments fell short.
By BLAKE BEDDINGFIELD, special correspondent
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Cleveland Browns beat the Titans with a rookie head coach, two rookie wide receivers, a rookie left tackle, a second-year running back and a second-year tight end.
And don’t forget a quarterback who hasn’t had a winning season since 2019.
This wasn’t supposed to be the Browns' day. The Titans were at home, coming off their first win, and had a chance to showcase their young talent.
Instead, Cleveland got more from its young players and the Titans were left with too many high draft choices and highly paid players who aren't making enough plays.
The Titans showed some life Sunday by utilizing Tony Pollard as their feature running back. Now is the time for Carnell Tate, Gunnar Helm and Cam Ward to prove why they were drafted.
Tate had five catches for 69 yards, with 32 yards after the catch and zero broken tackles. Browns rookie wide receiver KC Concepcion had eight catches for 129 yards, 81 after the catch and three broken tackles.
Tate made some nice catches, but Concepcion made explosive, impactful plays.
The Titans utilized their most consistent player in Pollard, behind the run-blocking offensive line. The next step is Ward throwing accurately downfield. He finished with 20 completions for 181 yards. Deshaun Watson had 25 completions for 308 yards. Some of that difference came from Concepcion making 81 yards after the catch.
It isn’t all on Ward. Receivers, tight ends and running backs need to make yards after the catch.
Start being playmakers!
