Key To Success—The 2009 Tennessee Titans

With the Tennessee Titans preparing for their first preseason game today, lets take a look at the key players for the team that could make or break the season. Whats needs to improve from last year? What needs to change? What needs to stay the same?

Coming off a superb year and a hugely disappointing playoff loss to Baltimore, the pressure of expectation is huge. Tennessee go into the season as one of the top five teams in the AFC, but in the midst of a hugely competitive division, the AFC South, it's going to be a long hard fight for the next five months. Enjoy.....

Quarterback

Kerry Collins was outstanding for the Titans last year. His numbers didn't light up anyone's scoreboard, but he was ruthlessly efficient when he had to be and was the main inspiration behind the 13-3 success story.

He will start under center on opening day and if he can be just as accurate and efficient as he was last year, I see no reason for him to not play all 16 games. With new reliable targets to aim at, he could be every better. However, with Vince Young waiting in the wings, in what could be his last chance to prove himself, any mistake by Collins and Coach Fisher won't hesitate to give the ball to Young.

Running Back

Rookie sensation Chris Johnson was nothing short of sensational last year, and the one-two combo of Johnson and powerhouse LenDale White was highly effective. If Johnson can avoid the sophomore curse and LenDale can continue to be effective at the goal line, they should be just as devastating this year.

However, if Johnson can't reproduce and LenDale begins to complain about a lack of carries again, the whole dynamic could fall apart which would be disastrous for the offense—Kerry Collins can't carry this team alone.

Defensive Line

Hugely dominant last year, but questions surround the line this year, mainly due to the departure of star defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth. Tony Brown has to step up and be a leader of this unit now. His partner will most probably start off as Jason Jones, but with rookie Sen'Derrick Marks having a great camp, he will surely get decent playing time.

Jevon Kearse was good but not great last year, and at 33 years old, he may be a weak link. The team has to hope for a return to form from Kyle Vanden Bosch who was slowed by injury last year. This unit is probably the biggest make or break part of the team.

Secondary

Cortland Finnegan established himself as one of the best corners in the game last year and he is a lock to only improve further this year. Harper, Griffin, Hope, and Finnegan form one of the best secondary units in football and were fifth in the league in interceptions last year. The unit will continue to be strong this year and provide very little cause for concern for Fisher.

Wide Receiver

Tennesse have lacked a big play receiver for several years now. Although they have upgraded with Nate Washington, the real key to success lies with first round draft pick Kenny Britt. A down field threat in college, if he can get past he reliability issues, he could be a rookie sensation and a huge help to Kerry Collins. The ideal scenario would be for Washington and Britt to really settle into the offense by week four and carry the passing game. However its a big if.

Offensive Line

Along with the secondary line, the OL is the most stable and reliable unit. Probably one of the best in the NFL. They lead the league in 2008, allowing only 12 sacks. With Kerry Collins not as agile as he once was, providing him with the time he needs to move around the pocket is crucial. They should provide just a good a service for Collins this year. No headache here for Fisher. Look for Michael Roos to establish himself as one of the top three tackles in the game this year.

2009-10 Prediction

The biggest questions lie with the Quarterback and Defensive Line positions. If these two units can perform, it could be a very successful year for the Titans. If it falls apart, forget about the playoffs.

Prediction: 12-4, second Place AFC South, Wildcard winner
Playoffs: Lose AFC Championship game to New England.

RIP Steve "Air" McNair.