The Titans hoped for a better season after choosing Cam Ward as the rookie QB who didn’t carry any past baggage. But after 6 games, they only have 83 points, their lowest since 1985. Against the Raiders during week 6, things looked worse. The head coach, Brian Callahan, is speechless.

Talking to the reporters after the game, he looked disappointed. “I’m incredibly discouraged by the outcome, we felt good coming into the game. And to not be able to perform well on offence, and not be able to score on points, and then lose a game is just funny. We all gotta be better,” he said while talking about their performance. But he then addressed the rookie and added, “Cam’s a part of that too. Cam’s gotta play better football as well. And we gotta coach better, we gotta play better, all those things. It’s not all just him, but he is a part of it.”

The Titans came to Allegiant Stadium with the week 5 win against the Cardinals, but couldn’t make the safe plays. Their 3rd down efficiency was poor, only completing 3 of 13 (23.1%) compared to the Raiders (46.2%). The offensive line even failed to protect Cam Ward.

Cam Ward completed 26 of 38 passes for 222 yards with one touchdown and one interception. His passer rating was 81.2. He had a tough time handling the pass rush and was sacked six times for a loss of 62 yards. Those sacks stopped several drives and made it hard for him to throw deep, with his longest pass going only 23 yards.

Geno Smith was steadier and efficient. He completed 17 of 23 passes for 174 yards, also with one touchdown and one interception, and had a 91.6 passer rating. He was sacked only twice for 16 yards, showing better movement in the pocket and faster decisions. His longest pass went for 37 yards.

While talking to the media in the post-game conference, Brian Callahan’s starter acknowledged that he is feeling better and more adapted to the pressure. But he also noted that a change in their strategy was necessary. Even RT JC Latham had a look of disappointment on his face. He even said that he let down the team in week 6.

There was a controversial moment as well during the game.

Brian Callahan talks about the referee’s heartbreaking decision

During the game, the referees made a controversial call, wiping out a touchdown by linebacker Cody Barton. The coach also talked about it. “I thought we scored on defense, and we needed them to step up for us today. They ruled that his arm was coming forward. I thought it was pretty darn close.” he said.

At the 13:38 mark in the 2nd quarter, on the 3rd and 4 drive at Titans 41 yards, linebacker Jihad Ward sacked Geno Smith. As the ball dropped from his arm a few yards away, LB Cody Barton picked up the ball and took off. He finished his run in the end zone, and everyone on the team started celebrating.

The on-ground referee did not whistle it. However, the replay team officially reviewed it as Smith signaled that it was an incomplete pass. They later ruled out the fumble and reversed the touchdown. As the Raiders led only by 3 points, it was a blow to the  Titans, who were trying to get ahead.

While talking to reporters after the game, Cody Barton only had one message. To look into the future. He acknowledged that they missed a major chance of getting ahead. But he wasn’t disappointed and tried to give confidence to the locker room.

Brian Callahan understands they don’t have time. They are already 1-5 now. They need at least 8 of 11 wins to be in the playoff discussion.