5 observations from the Titans’ Week 16 win over the Chiefs

The Tennessee Titans defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 26-9 in Week 16. The Titans dominated on both offense and defense as the Chiefs were down to their third quarterback. It was the Nashville-based club’s first win in Nashville in over 410 days.

We’ve identified five observations from the Titans’ Week 16 victory.

Cam Ward

Cam Ward was efficient and accurate, especially during the Titans’ opening possession of the second half. The nine-play, 75-yard scoring drive featured 69 passing yards. Ward hit Elic Ayomanor for a 25-yard gain on a 3rd-and-4 that highlighted gorgeous over-the-shoulder ball placement. He then found Chimere Dike for some 30-yard off-script magic. The drive ended with a TD to Dike.

Ward finished 21-of-28 for 228 yards, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions.

Jeffery Simmons is dominant

Jeffery Simmons was unblockable as per usual. In the second quarter, Simmons tackled a Chiefs ball-carrier in the end zone for a safety. The Chiefs’ interior offensive lineman were seen yelling on the sideline. They struggled to protect the quarterback from No. 98 all contest long.

Rookie playmakers

Both Dike and Ayomanor made several plays for Ward on Sunday. Dike recorded three receptions for 40 receiving yards and a TD. Ayomanor had three catches for a team-high 58 receiving yards. Ward and his first-year playmakers are showcasing some chemistry.

Gunnar Helm tap toe

Titans interim head coach Mike McCoy finally made an aggressive decision during the first half. Faced with a 4th-and-1 following a no-gain run by Kalel Mullings, the Titans decided to go for it. Cam Ward found fellow rookie Gunnar Helm near the sideline. Helm appeared to have made an excellent toe-tapping catch near the sideline, but on review, his toe touched out of bounds. Missed opportunity.

Tyjae Spears

It’s a shame Tyjae Spears struggles to stay healthy. The former Tulane standout was incredibly explosive throughout the first half, producing 66 yards as a dual-threat rusher and pass catcher. Spears was Ward’s most dynamic playmaker versus the Chiefs, and he added a touchdown in the second half.