Tennessee Titans Playoff Contenders In 2015?

The Tennessee Titans finished last season with a record of 2-14 and missed the playoffs again for the sixth consecutive year. Tennessee hasn’t seen the playoffs since 2008, but can they finally reach the postseason in 2015?

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After a very productive off-season the Titans bring in one of the most talented teams in years. From 1999-2008 the Tennessee Titans made six playoffs appearances. During those seasons they always featured a top 10 defense. Over the past several seasons their team defense has taken a big step backwards.

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In 2008 when they made their last playoff appearance the Titans finished with a 13-3 record while only allowing 234 points on defense. In 2014 Tennessee allowed 438 points.

One of the primary plans of focus this offseason was to improve of the defensive side of the ball. I believe that they did just that. The Titans signed linebacker Brian Orakpo, cornerback Perrish Cox, and safety Da’Norris Searcy this summer.

In addition the Titans also added hall of fame defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau. Previously LeBeau has been the defensive genius behind the Pittsburgh Steelers success on defense with their 3-4 zone blitzing scheme.

The Titans are entering their second season running the 3-4 defense. The players should now be more comfortable since they will not need to learn a new scheme this season.

After the teams mini camp defensive lineman Jurrell Casey said “A lot of guys are flying around out there. They know their assignments”.

Jul 31, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans runningback Bishop Sankey (20) runs the ball during the first day of training camp at Saint Thomas Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports /

As for the offensive side of the ball the Titans have made some improvements as well. They drafted quarterback Marcus Mariota, receiver Dorial Green-Beckham, and running back David Cobb.

Heading into camp the expectation is that last seasons second round pick Bishop Sankey will take over as the featured running back. Although he struggled last season by finishing with only 569 rushing yards, this is the first season that he enters as the clear starter.

Sankey will also now receive help with the addition of Heisman Trophy winner Marcus Mariota. With a threat of a passing game Sankey should have some extra room to maneuver.

The Titans have not had a quarterback start all 16 regular season games since Kerry Collins back in 2008. Hopefully Mariota will be able to change those fortunes around.

The Titans also have a solid receiver corps with the addition of veterans Hakeem Nicks and Harry Douglas. If they can put together a consistent solid offense the Titans will have the opportunity to compete in the AFC South.

If the Tennessee Titans can gel quickly this season they will have the opportunity to compete for a wild card birth and the chance to finish 2nd in the AFC South behind the Indianapolis Colts. I think this team is talented enough to be better than both the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Houston Texans and could end the playoff drought in 2015.

Next: Tennessee Titans: 5 Players To Watch During Camp

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Are The Tennessee Titans Playoff Contenders In 2015?

By Devon Lloyd | Aug 1, 2015

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