NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- A few thoughts on the Tennessee Titans' 27-24 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers at LP Field.
What it means: A team that’s been frequently lifeless awakened and provided cause for excitement and optimism in a compelling and entertaining prime-time game. But the Titans blew it in the end, allowing the Steelers to run out the clock with an impressive final possession. Running back Le'Veon Bell finished with 204 yards and a score on 33 carries, and the Steelers converted 7 of 12 third downs. The Titans ran only seven plays in the fourth quarter, earning just one first down. They held the ball for just 20:11.
Stock watch: The pass rush got more from the edge than it has in any game this season. While Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers converted a good share of third downs, the Titans did well to swarm him and keep him surrounded, not allowing him to keep too many plays alive as he so often does after the rush arrives. Five sacks were a big, positive development.
Game ball: Zach Mettenberger threw a pick-six the first time he dropped back, but his recovery was excellent. He wound up hitting 15 of 24 passes for 263 yards and two touchdowns to go with the interception. That was good for a 110.2 passer rating against a defense notorious for swallowing rookie quarterbacks. When he executed play-action and got protection, he made a number of good throws.
Of note: Tennessee committed just one penalty worth 10 yards, a hold against right guard Chance Warmack.
What’s next: The Titans head to Philadelphia to face the Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday afternoon.
