In the teams’ opening preseason game on Saturday night, the Tennessee Titans defeated the San Francisco 49ers 17–13 thanks to touchdown drives led by Will Levis in both of his series.
In addition to spectacular performances by the special teams, the two scores were the result of effective play in the new system designed by Titans head coach Brian Callahan, a first-year figure.
It was absolutely great to see that we did not have any penalties until the second half. There are a few things we need to tidy up. However, it was our main objective, and in terms of the offense, Levis thought the team performed well.
With a quarterback sneak to cap off the Titans’ opening drive, Levis completed 4 of 5 throws for 35 yards.
Jordan Mason scored the game’s first touchdown for the 49ers on an 11-play, 74-yard drive. The 49ers did not start Brock Purdy at quarterback or any of their best offensive players; instead, Brandon Allen got the start in that position.
“If you look at our past performance, I generally do not start any starters in the first game,” 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan stated.
“Well, that is generally how we are. Depending on how things go, I might feel differently at times, but nothing is changing in this camp yet.”
Tennessee’s special teams played a major role in their response. After the NFL implemented a new kickoff regulation, Kearis Jackson broke free up the middle for a 63-yard return on their first attempt.
The Titans were placed at the San Francisco 15-yard line after the 49ers were penalized 15 yards for sideline interference. After seven plays and a 49ers defensive holding call, Levis finally found the end zone for Tennessee with a 1-yard sneak.
Once the Titans forced San Francisco to punt on the following series, Levis led a lengthier scoring drive that covered 64 yards in seven plays. The drive began on a third down when Levis found Calvin Ridley for a 22-yard catch and run.
The drive was eventually completed by Tyjae Spears’ 4-yard touchdown run on the opening play of the second quarter. Tony Pollard, a recent addition, had runs of 8 and 24 yards during that stretch.