Michael Lombardi Picks Titans to Win South

[TTN2810]

Why I like the Titans to win the AFC South

With Peyton Manning out for an extended period, the AFC South is up for grabs. The Texans are certainly a contender for the throne, but I like the Titans http://www.nfl.com/goto?id=09000d5d821ce69bto win the South. Here are my reasons why: » Sure, it's the Texans that have one of the most explosive offenses in football. But look at the numbers. The Texans averaged 24 points per game last year; the Titans, with all their problems at quarterback, still averaged 22. This season, with a proven quarterback in Matthew Hasselbeck, Tennessee's offensive production is sure to improve.

» Like the 'Skins, the Titans have a favorable schedule, the 25th easiest in the league. They will only face six teams that were in the playoffs last year.

» Hasselbeck will give them stability, leadership and work ethic at the quarterback position, as well as a more accurate passer who can still be effective.

» The Titans have one of the best offensive lines in the league and they also have two excellent tight ends in Jared Cook and Craig Stephens. Cook is a diamond in the rough and I expect him to have a breakout season.

» Their defense will be improved this year. Watch rookie defensive tackle Karl Klug, a fifth-round pick who gives them another tough inside player capable of creating negative plays.

The Titans were a tough-minded team before Mike Munchak took over, but this summer they look even tougher, playing the game with better pad level and more intensity. Jeff Fisher was great for the Titans, but sometimes change is good and the Titans seem to have responded to their new coach.

 

[Hurricane Season]

I think Lombardi also picked the Redskins to win the NFCE.

Seems like he's just throwing some shit at the wall so he can say "Told ya so" if any of this happens.

I'm pulling for him to be right on his predictions though. lol

 

[TTN2810]

He did pick the Skins. Like for the Titans, he did give reasons why they would win, and he said he had thought about it a lot. Hopefully he's right.

 

[jonathanlambert33]

It's not out of the realm of possibility, especially if Hasselbeck can play good ball for you guys.

 

[Giantmetfan07]

Hasselbeck hasn't thrown more TDs than INTs since 2007...when he was 32.....

I really don't see it happening. But, he does make a good point. Last year their passing game was so bad teams just loaded up 8 in the box to stop Chris Johnson. If they can open up the passing game a bit more that's going to keep the defense guessing and give Johnson a few more chances to break out a big gain. It's not crazy, but it's a long shot.

 

[TTN2810]

I realistically see them coming in second. Which most people disagree with lol. Don't forget Hasselbeck's playoff performance last year though. 7 TD's, 1 INT in 2 games. Hopefully he can carry that ratio over lol.

 

[kam.]

I just don't see the Titans winning the South..

3rd place for them.

 

[WHO-DEY-BENGALS_18]

Michael Lombardi is full of himself.

 

[TTN2810]

Matt Hasselbeck played like a joke.
I'd almost rather just let Locker get the reps.