NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Tennessee Titans coach Ken Whisenhunt maintained Monday that nothing had changed for his team from the quarterback perspective.
He echoed that in a conference call with Houston reporters and indicated to Nashville media that Jake Locker was doing better and would speak Thursday rather than Wednesday because the coach "figured we'd have a little more clarity."
ESPN's Adam Caplan has confirmed an earlier report that the Titans are turning to rookie Zach Mettenberger rather than Locker or Charlie Whitehurst as the starter Sunday against the Houston Texans at LP Field. Citing sources, Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean first reported the news.
It's a bold move with plenty of upside for the Titans, who are going nowhere with what they've used through seven games en route to a 2-5 record. Mettenberger might spark the team.
Even if he struggles, Tennessee can cast it as a rookie taking his lumps for the greater, long-term good.
It's the scenario a large percentage of vocal fans have clamored for on talk radio and Twitter.
Mettenberger is a big, strong-armed pocket passer. His draft stock fell after an ACL tear at LSU and a reportedly diluted urine sample at the scouting combine.
His composition and style make him the Titans quarterback best equipped to run the offense Whisenhunt brought with him to Tennessee. Whisenhunt employed it as offensive coordinator in Pittsburgh, as head coach for six seasons in Arizona and last year as coordinator in San Diego.
The Titans are as anonymous as any team in the NFL. Mettenberger will now get an extensive chance to take on a role as the young face of the franchise.
