Titans QB Will Levis could play an outstanding game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday
All eyes will be on Tennessee Titans starting quarterback Will Levis when the team takes on the Chicago Bears in their Week 1 contest this Sunday. General manager Ran Carthon has invested significant resources into his development. Levis is tasked with taking advantage of significantly more favorable surroundings this season.
Levis draws a difficult assignment versus a quality Bears defense this weekend. Head coach Matt Eberflus is a defensive-minded leader that fielded the league's top-ranked scoring defense over the final eight contests of the 2023 campaign. Titans fans are rightfully excited to watch Levis' progress this season, and that journey begins Sunday against the Bears.
We've compiled three bold predictions for Levis this weekend.
Levis throws two touchdowns
Levis struggled to consistently find the end-zone last season after throwing a historic four touchdowns in his NFL debut. After that, the Kentucky standout threw just four touchdowns in his next eight appearances. That's precisely why a two-touchdown game versus the Bears would qualify as impressive.
The Bears allowed 31 passing touchdowns last season, the fourth-worst mark in the league. That's somewhat surprising considering the cornerback trio of Jaylon Johnson, Tyrique Stevenson (as a rookie), and Kyler Gordon was already in place. It's worth noting the Bears defense didn't get consistent help from their offense, which should be better with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. The secondary also added former Titans safety Kevin Byard this offseason.
A multi-TD performance by Levis would get his sophomore campaign off to a great start.
One of those touchdowns goes to Calvin Ridley
The work-in-progress chemistry between Levis and wide receiver Calvin Ridley was often discussed throughout training camp. At times, it was obvious that Levis and his shiny new $92 million wideout were still getting on the same page. There were several instances where the QB-WR duo missed on deep-ball opportunities in practice, with both parties being guilty of misreading the other's ability.
Levis and Ridley did connect on a few occasions throughout the preseason. The Titans understandably limited Ridley's exhibition reps, though he still managed to record three receptions for 61 receiving yards, including explosive gains for Levis. The Titans would love to see that carry over into Week 1.
Levis doesn't commit any turnovers
Ball security was an issue for Levis throughout his rookie season. He threw four interceptions in nine games and fumbled on seven occasions, losing four. The analytics weren't kind, either. Levis concluded his first campaign with a turnover-worthy play rate of 4.5 percent, the third-worst mark in the league, according to Pro Football Focus.
Part of Brian Callahan's job as the head coach and offensive play caller will be to make Levis a more mundane quarterback, one that goes through his progressions with success, takes what the defense offers him, and targets Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears when necessary. The Bears defense recorded a league-leading 22 interceptions last season. Levis can display the desired growth by avoiding an interception.
