Friday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium wasn’t just another preseason game — it was one of those August contests that leaves you saying, “Man, this team has a lot to figure out… but also, I kinda like what I saw.” The Titans walked away with a 23-20 win, but the real story was the rollercoaster of rookie mistakes, highlight-reel plays, and those sloppy preseason penalties that remind you: yep, we’re still in August.
Titans: Flashes of the Future
All eyes were on rookie QB Cam Ward, the Titans’ No. 1 overall pick. If you’re checking the box score, it doesn’t exactly scream “instant franchise savior” — 2-for-7, 42 yards. But let’s be real: stats never tell the whole preseason story. Ward dropped a gorgeous 35-yard dime on his very first throw, and he should’ve had another beauty on the board if not for Van Jefferson flat-out dropping a perfect pass.
The real breakout? Tight end Gunnar Helm. The rookie went up and snagged a tough 25-yard touchdown grab that had the Titans sideline buzzing. Add in Kendell Brooks’ 53-yard pick-six and a clutch Joey Slye field goal late in the fourth, and you’ve got yourself the formula for a gritty preseason win.
Bottom line: Ward looked raw, but you saw the flashes. Tennessee’s young guys are giving fans plenty to dream on.
Falcons: Big Plays, Costly Mistakes
On the Falcons’ side, there was plenty to like — if you can stomach the rough edges. Easton Stick racked up 173 yards and a touchdown, but his night is going to be remembered for a costly interception that flipped momentum. That’s preseason football in a nutshell: one throw you love, one throw you wish you could delete from the tape.
The defense brought the fireworks, though. Corner Natrone Brooks jumped a route and took it 33 yards to the house for Atlanta’s first preseason points — the kind of play that makes coaches take notice. Add in rookie back Nathan Carter, who ripped off a 43-yard touchdown run, and you’ve got some serious highlight material for the week’s film sessions.
The downside? Penalties. Sloppy execution. Missed chances. If Atlanta wants to make noise once the real games start, they’ll need to tighten up fast.
Final Whistle
It’s preseason, so the final score means little. What matters is who popped off the screen — and who still looks like a work in progress.
Easton Stick – QB
Easton Stick didn’t exactly shine under pressure. He struggled to find offensive rhythm, coupled with the shaky offensive line play, the team execution sputtered. However, he was 19-32 for 179 yards and one TD. This performance could be enough to solidify him as QB3 with one pre-season game remaining.
Natrone Brooks – CB
On defense, cornerback Natrone Brooks snagged a 33-yard interception return, showcasing both awareness and playmaking ability. He is a longshot to make this 53-man roster.
Nathan Carter – RB
Another standout was Nathan (Nate) Carter, who delivered a breakout performance with a big 43-yard touchdown run. With a limited preseason window, he has made the most of his opportunity to backup Bijon Robinson and Tyler Algiers.
Offensive Line (Reserves)
On the flip side, the Falcons’ reserve offensive line continued to show vulnerability. This appears to be an area of concern, the O-line shows inconsistencies and pressure issues that align with Stick's struggles. The Falcons are counting on Storm Norman, Elijah Wilkerson, Jack Nelson, and Jovaughn Gwyn to be ready to step up if a starter goes down.
At the end of the night, this one had everything you want from an August game: rookies flashing, veterans working the kinks out, and just enough chaos to keep everyone talking until the preseason finale.
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