Let me tell you something that’s rarely discussed about NFL preseason games: they’re not about winning. They’re about testing edges, gauging chemistry, and seeing if the starting lineup can survive 15 minutes of actual contact. The Titans’ 19-13 win over the 49ers last night was no exception. But what makes this particularly fascinating is how much it reveals about the team’s mindset, not just their performance. If you take a step back and think about it, a preseason opener isn’t a game—it’s a pressure test for coaches, a confidence booster for players, and a chaotic experiment for fans who want to see the future.
A Tale of Two Halves
The Titans’ first half was a masterclass in contrast. On one end, you had Cam Ward’s 95-yard opening drive, a thing of beauty that felt like a playoff game. Calvin Ridley and Gunnar Helm were dancing with defenders, Tyjae Spears was breaking tackles like it was 2009, and Tony Pollard capped it with a five-yard run that made the crowd believe. Then, just as quickly, the momentum shifted. The defense, which had looked sharp early, gave up a scoring drive to the 49ers’ backups. What many people don’t realize is that this isn’t a flaw—it’s a feature of preseason football. Coaches are intentionally testing their units, and the 49ers’ offense, led by backup Kurtis Rourke, was given a script to exploit weaknesses. It’s a reminder that in these games, the goal isn’t to win, but to find cracks in your own armor.
The Field Goal Frenzy
Joey Slye’s four field goals were the unsung heroes of this game. In a contest where touchdowns were rare (and one of them was a fluke), Slye’s leg became the difference. But here’s what’s interesting: field goals in preseason games are often seen as a crutch. Yet, in this case, they were a strategic choice. The Titans’ starters only played about 20 snaps, and the coaching staff clearly wanted to protect their offense while still showcasing their kicking game. This raises a deeper question: how much does a kicker’s performance in preseason actually matter? I’ve always thought it’s a red herring. A 55-yard field goal in a meaningless game doesn’t prove anything. But it does give a coach something to talk about, and that’s what matters in the NFL.
The Backup Conundrum
When Mitchell Trubisky took over for Cam Ward in the second quarter, it was a moment that felt oddly familiar. Trubisky, who’s been a journeyman QB in recent years, was given a chance to show what he could do. But here’s the thing: backups in preseason games are like ghosts. They’re there to take snaps, sure, but they’re not supposed to outplay the starters. And yet, when I watched Trubisky throw, I couldn’t help but think about the irony. He’s been on teams that have won Super Bowls, but here he was, throwing to a receiver who’s been benched for the season. It’s a reminder that in the NFL, even the best players can be reduced to background noise when the spotlight isn’t on them.
The Coach’s Dilemma
Robert Saleh’s postgame comments were telling. He praised the defense but admitted there were concerns. That’s the balancing act every coach faces in preseason: you want to be optimistic, but you also can’t ignore the flaws. Saleh’s mention of urgency is a classic move. It signals to the team that there’s work to be done, but it also gives the media something to chew on. What I find especially interesting is how Saleh framed the game. He didn’t focus on the win; he focused on the process. That’s the kind of leadership that builds culture, even in a 19-13 game that means nothing.
Looking Ahead
As the Titans prepare for their next preseason game against the Seahawks, one thing is clear: the real season isn’t here yet. But the lessons from this game will linger. The offense needs to find consistency, the defense needs to tighten up, and the backups need to prove they’re worth their roster spots. And let’s be honest—this is just the beginning. The real test comes when the stakes are higher, when the crowd is louder, and when the scoreboard matters. Until then, we’ll keep dissecting these games like they’re playoff matchups. Because in the NFL, even the preseason is a story worth telling.
