The Titans defense has been elite in all but one category
It's hard to complain about a Tennessee Titans defense that's leading the NFL in yards allowed after two contests. Dennard Wilson's defense has been outstanding, but they've been lacking in one crucial area. Surprisingly, they've yet to create a turnover. If they want to be considered truly elite while ensuring they keep up their current form, turnovers must start arriving in bunches.
Over the first two weeks, they're recorded a few tipped passes at the line of scrimmage, and have sacked opposing quarterbacks just four times. Wilson's defense still hasn't forced any fumbles or picked off any passes. If not for a muffed kick return from the Chicago Bears, the Titans would be one of three teams in the NFL without a single turnover to their name.
If the Titans were humming on offense, or if they could execute the bare minimum on special teams and keep teams from blocking a punt every game, this probably wouldn't be a big deal. However, the offense and special teams aren't operating smoothly yet, increasing the defense's need to create game-changing plays. Until the offense improves, the defense needs to overachieve if the Titans are going to survive this 0-2 start.
The good news is that there are reasons to think that turnovers could be coming.
Amani Hooker, L'Jarius Sneed, and Quandre Diggs are proven threats to create turnovers. Over the last few years, that trio has combined to average seven interceptions per season. There is no tangible reason to expect those numbers to disappear in Wilson's aggressive defense.
Until the interceptions start arriving, forcing fumbles should be another area of emphasis. With the way Titans off-ball linebackers Ernest Jones IV and Kenneth Murray have been attacking the line of scrimmage, it's only a matter of time before a jarring hit forces a loose football.
Then you have the defensive front, which seems poised for a breakout performance soon. Harold Landry is tied with Maxx Crosby for the third-most sacks in the NFL this season (3), and has a knack for forcing fumbles and tipping passes. Arden Key also forced two fumbles throughout 2023, though he's been disappointingly quiet through two games.
Between the EDGEs is the dynamic duo of Jeffery Simmons and T'Vondre Sweat, who have created chaos in the pocket this season. Hopefully Simmons and Sweat can that turn their space-eating form into pass-rushing production soon enough.
The Titans roster the defenders to make life difficult for opposing quarterbacks. Wilson is the appropriate DC for this unit. Most metrics indicate they're performing great overall, but they unfortunately can't settle for great given the struggles on offense and special teams. The Titans defense needs to start generating momentum-shifting plays. Wilson's defense is carrying the team while the offense is still locating its footing. Turnovers are necessary.
