Titans Defeat 49ers in Preseason Opener
- The Tennessee Titans secured a victory against the San Francisco 49ers with a score of 17-13 in their preseason opener.
- This match marked the first game of the preseason for both teams.
- The Titans demonstrated strong performance, setting a positive tone for the upcoming season.
In a competitive preseason matchup, Titans quarterback Will Levis showcased his adaptability to new head coach Brian Callahan's offensive system, completing 4 of 5 passes for 35 yards and scoring on a quarterback sneak during the team's opening drive. The 49ers initially took the lead with a 74-yard drive, culminating in a 4-yard touchdown run by Jordan Mason, who had a notable performance in the first quarter. The Titans responded effectively, aided by a significant 63-yard kickoff return from Kearis Jackson, which set them up at the San Francisco 15-yard line. Following a defensive holding penalty against the 49ers, Levis scored again on a 1-yard sneak, leveling the game. The Titans continued to build momentum, with Levis leading a 64-yard scoring drive that featured key contributions from Calvin Ridley and Tony Pollard, ultimately resulting in a 4-yard touchdown run by Tyjae Spears. The game highlighted the Titans' transition from a run-heavy offense, previously centered around Derrick Henry, to a more pass-oriented approach. This shift was evident in their offensive strategy and the emphasis on improving the offensive line, which had struggled with 64 sacks last season. However, the 49ers' defense proved formidable, successfully stopping the Titans on two critical fourth-and-1 attempts, showcasing their ability to thwart Tennessee's offensive efforts as the game progressed.