Will Levis showcases franchise QB tendencies in victory over Panthers

Tennessee Titans rookie quarterback Will Levis looked like a franchise quarterback throughout Sunday’s over the Carolina Panthers . Levis was especially effective in the first half. All in all, Levis completed 18-of-28 passing attempts for 185 yards, zero touchdowns, and zero interceptions.

Levis’ first passing attempt was a 19-yard strike to DeAndre Hopkins. That drive unfortunately ended in a punt four plays later. But Tennessee’s second offensive possession was arguably their most impressive of the 2023 season.

Levis spearheaded a 15 play, 80-yard scoring drive. Levis went 7/7 on the drive for 90 passing yards. The former Kentucky standout displayed terrific accuracy, anticipation, poise, and timing throughout the scoring possession. Levis overcame a sack and a false start penalty, which occurred on back-to-back plays, forcing the Titans into a 3rd-and-12. An 11-yard strike to Hopkins offered the Titans a manageable 4th-and-1, which Derrick Henry converted. It was great to see Mike Vrabel show some aggressiveness for a change.

The drive also included a 25-yard floater to Chig Okonkwo down the sideline. Levis put amazing touch on the ball despite being dragged down by a defender. Completions to Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and Chris Moore showcased Levis’ natural feel and internal clock for pressure, delivering the ball on schedule to his receivers near the sideline. Perhaps my favorite throw of the drive was this honey hole shot to rookie tight end Josh Whyle in a tight window.

Will Levis Threading the Needle and Derrick Henry finishes the Drive pic.twitter.com/GksXFIIVMD

— RJ Ellison November 27, 2023 Nursing a 14-3 lead towards the conclusion of the second quarter, Levis and the Titans offense received the ball at their own 38-yard line. Levis completed two straight passes for gains of nine and 18 to get the special teams unit into a manageable field goal situation. Nick Folk drilled a 53-yard attempt and the Titans took a comfortable, commanding 17-3 lead into the break.

The offense wasn’t as impressive throughout the second half, failing to score points. It was mostly about clock management, relying on Henry and an opportunistic defense that sacked Bryce Young on four occasions.

Levis continues to play like a franchise quarterback.