Brian Callahan makes feelings known on Cam Ward’s shaky performance in Titans’ 23-20 win vs. Falcons

Cam Ward's performance on Friday at the Atlanta Falcons left much to be desired and many wanting, but coach Brian Callahan is willing to defend him.

For the second game in a row, the Tennessee Titans' first pick of the 2025 draft struggled to generate offense during the 23-20 victory, completing two of seven passing attempts for a measly 42 yards. It was worse than the 67 he had put up on five completions in a 29-7 loss at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last week.

However, coach Callahan offered nothing but praise for him, as per veteran team reporter Jim Wyatt:

Looking to predict NFL playoff Scenarios? Try our NFL Playoff Predictor for real-time simulations and stay ahead of the game!

The Titans were led by Brandon Allen, who completed 11 of 14 attempts for 119 yards and a touchdown to rookie tight end Gunnar Helm against an interception to Natrone Brooks. Jermar Jefferson rushed for a touchdown as well, while new kicker Joey Slye was 2/3 on extra points and scored the decisive field goal in the fourth quarter.

For the Falcons, Easton Stick completed 19 of 32 passes for 173 yards and a touchdown to Chris Blair against an interception to Kendell Brooks. Nathan Carter also rushed for a touchdown, while Younghoe Koo was perfect on four extra point and field goal attempts.

Cam Ward reacts to performance vs. Falcons, cannot wait for "the real football" to start

Cam Ward thinks the Titans were "pretty good in terms of operations" throughout the game. Speaking about his performance, he said (from 07:17):

"It was real good, 'cause more reps for me. Gametime reps, instead of practice. There's also getting a feel for situation football."

One of the mistakes he committed during the game was a dropped pass by Van Jefferson. He reacted:

"If I need to throw the ball better, or if he thought I let him too far in front, or if he just thought he dropped the ball - end of the day, it's on both of us. We got to make that play."

Cam Ward continued:

"I'm excited for the real football to start. We're going to have a good challenge (against the Minnesota Vikings) next week, and I'm excited to get to Denver."

Kickoff for the Titans-Vikings game is at 7 p.m. CT on CBS.

About the author

Andre Castillo is an NFL journalist at Sportskeeda who holds a Bachelor’s degree in English and Master’s degree in Journalism. He has over seven years of working experience and has also covered MMA with FanSided, wrestling with The Sportster, and automobiles with Hot Cars.

Andre follows the New York Jets and the Washington Commanders, mostly because he likes their colors. His favorite position is tight end, and players like Mark Andrews and Travis Kelce have always drawn Andre's attention when watching a game. Bill Belichick is his favorite coach, and his all-time favorite Super Bowl is the XLII edition, when the underdog New York Giants upset the then-undefeated New England Patriots.

If he can change one moment in NFL history, it will be from the NFC Championship Game in January 2019. In that game, a highly controversial no-call cost the Saints what would have been Drew Brees' second Super Bowl visit, where he would have faced Tom Brady and the Patriots.

Andre is always on the lookout for fresh perspectives in a story and ensures complete factual accuracy by double-checking all information before using it in his articles. He has an innate understanding of how to present information in an efficient and compelling way.

Outside the writing realm, Andre is a professional licensed teacher. His hobbies include watching UFC, MotoGP, playing the piano, and travelling.

Know More

Vikings Nation! Check out the latest Minnesota Vikings Schedule and dive into the Vikings Depth Chart for NFL Season 2024-25.

Edited by Andre Castillo