The first time the New York Jets faced the Tennessee Titans during the Eric Mangini Era, he was leading the 4-12 team he adopted to Nashville for Week One of the 2006 season. Coming off another 4-12 campaign, Mangini is once again taking a team with something to prove down to LP Field—but with a new cast of characters.
In 2006, he had Chad Pennington at quarterback—fresh off a second rotator-cuff surgery—and future Hall of Fame running back Curtis Martin on the physically-unable-to-perform list as he considered retirement.
Pennington ended up throwing for 319 yards en route to a 23-16 road victory, and the Mangenius Era was in full swing!
Kerry Collins saw his first action as a member of the Titans days after being signed because Jeff Fisher didn't believe Vince Young was ready for NFL action. What a difference two years makes, right?
With minimal preparation, Collins, Travis Henry, and the Titans pushed the Jets in the fourth quarter, scoring two touchdowns with two-point conversions when the game looked like the Jets were looking to run away with it.
The game was tough in Week One while both teams were trying to make sense of their talent. Now that both teams are in midseason form and leading their divisions, the game looks to be a much more competitive contest.
But which team has the edge?
10 and Is That So?
The new darlings of the NFL rest in Tennessee. Their story is a phenomenal one that the media simply loves, and they've been effectively executing on both sides of the ball.
They have a rookie running back that seems ready to become an NFL star, an old quarterback whose best years were supposed to be behind them, a defensive monster in Albert Haynesworth, and a head coach that deserves a title.
But are they really that good?
They've defeated the Indianapolis Colts, Baltimore Ravens, and—well, they beat the Colts and Ravens.
They were impressive victories, without a doubt. But both teams have considerable weaknesses in 2008. The Ravens have found success with a rookie quarterback in recent weeks, and the Colts seem to have hit a stride since losing to the Titans.
But has any other opponent of Tennessee's been truly formidable?
When the New York Jets roll into town, they will be facing the most well-rounded team on their schedule. The Jets can score on defense, offense, and special-teams.
We're going to send you the most entertaining Tennessee Titans articles, videos, and podcasts from around the web.
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