Just like last year. I hoped for their sake, it would be better, but if last night is any indication, ... it is really bad. The pass blocking is really not too bad, but Ben does hold on to the ball longer than most and it makes it tougher on the O line. But while their pass blocking isn't bad, they don't seem to run block very nearly as well. Also, the backs seem to be missing some seams when they do pop up and can't seem to break from the initial tackler to pick up a lot of positive yards.

 

The defense is still amazing.

 

I didn't understand why at the end of regulation, moving down the field in the 2 minute offense and being very effective, .. they went away from it and back to the run. I know you want to kill some clock, but they had a golden opportunity to put it in the end zone and put it in the hands of their defense (which is always a good idea in Pittsburg). I know that Ward fumbled, but leading up to that, I didn't like the sudden switch. Until they get a running game, Ben and the WRs will have to carry the load on the offensive side.

All in all you could tell it was the first game of the year in alot of ways, from play calls from both sides. And I'd be remiss if I didn't mention some rust from the officials. Terrible pass interference call on Troy in the first half and another terrible hold call on Max Starks by the referee. And what in the world was the deal with all the illegal formations called on Tenn with the tackle? Seems that would be easy to fix. Seemed like a very fine line to me. Kinda cheap.

Sweed was on the field alot, never got a ball thrown his way that I recall. Wallace is, according to the training camp reports, the 2nd fastest guy on the team. Second to Ike Taylor. He had the 2nd fastest time in the 40 at the combine for WR. He made a clutch grab in OT to seal it. I hope he progresses, because he can sure stretch a field.

 

They completed 33 passes and I don't even remember one being thrown towards Sweed. Wallace did look like a decent slot option, but we heard all camp how Sweed was going to have a great year.

All in all you could tell it was the first game of the year in alot of ways, from play calls from both sides. And I'd be remiss if I didn't mention some rust from the officials. Terrible pass interference call on Troy in the first half and another terrible hold call on Max Starks by the referee. And what in the world was the deal with all the illegal formations called on Tenn with the tackle? Seems that would be easy to fix. Seemed like a very fine line to me. Kinda cheap.

 

 

I didn't have a problem with those calls. The tackle kept lining up too deep and was not within the guidelines of being considered on the LOS. I have a feeling that Fisher will make the point on how those very avoidable penalties MUST be eliminated.

 

I agree on the pass interference call. That was bad IMHO. I guess the officials have rust just like the players.

 

For a relatively low scoring game, it was very exciting.

I don't know if the illegal formations were bad, or picky, calls. But, what I do know is after they call it, you should know it isn't acceptable. No excuse for getting the same penalty 3 times. Costly penalties too...a couple of them negated good gains for Tennessee.

 

I didn't have a problem with the calls. Stewart was noticeably back further than the rest of Tennessee's linemen. If they hadn't called it, he might have been taking handoffs by game's end.

I don't know if the illegal formations were bad, or picky, calls. But, what I do know is after they call it, you should know it isn't acceptable. No excuse for getting the same penalty 3 times. Costly penalties too...a couple of them negated good gains for Tennessee.

 

I didn't have a problem with the calls. Stewart was noticeably back further than the rest of Tennessee's linemen. If they hadn't called it, he might have been taking handoffs by game's end.

 

The commentators said that the illegal formation will be watched much closer and be a focus of the officials this year.

Still doesn't look good slouched over on the bench. Don't know any other backups not standing with the OC or head coach. Maybe I make too much out of it.

 

My roommate made a comment about that last night while we were watching the game. Just about every other backup QB always has a clipboard in his hand is working hard throughout the game.

When are teams going to learn that if you don't rush the QB they will pick up apart. It is hard to believe but you can drop 7 or 8 in coverage and they will still complete a pass for a first down. The biggest plays last night was after Titans sack Ben for a loss then they would lay back and Ben converted third and long twice. Are you listening Bengals and Mike Zimmer!!!!

5Wide, a man of integrity.:thumb:

Did anyone see that block that Ward had afer he fumbled??

Did anyone see that block that Ward had afer he fumbled??

 

Yeah, it was amazing.

I disagree. Big Ben gets hit so much because he holds onto the ball to long in order to try and extend the play. You can't expect the offensive line to be able to block for 5-7 seconds.

 

Which is not always a good idea. He takes a lot of hits and sacks...

Which is not always a good idea. He takes a lot of hits and sacks...

He's been hit in the face by a Chrysler, he'll be okay.

He's been hit in the face by a Chrysler, he'll be okay.

 

:banana:I don't care who ya are, that's funny right there!