What were the keys to the team’s victory this week?
The defense stepped up early and allowed us to overcome some early mistakes on offense. The run game struggled early on, but sticking to it paid off as Chubb will wear on a defense and eventually have some big plays, and that's exactly what he did. The offense executed when it mattered.
Can you summarize what it was like playing against the Steelers last week?
This game was an odd one, because both teams had to adjust game plans according to the weather. The hurricane level rain lead us both to play fairly conservative, and we were able to make stops early and run effectively. Getting ahead early really put the pressure on the Steelers to get something going, and especially in the rain that can lead to mistakes. We capitalized on those mistakes.
Can you talk about the development of Cedric Tillman so far?
Cedric Tillman has looked really good, and him being on the practice squad truly speaks to the talent we have in this wr room. He could easily be on a roster, but we plan to continue his development and he does have a role in the future of this team.
Can you talk about what it’s like to prepare to go against a player like Derrick Henry?
Its really difficult to prepare for a guy like Derrick Henry. He is truly one of a kind. The good news is that this defense gets practice reps against a guy named Nick Chubb. They are of course two different guys, but we know what it is like to make tackles against a bruiser who will beat you up. That helps big time.
How has Akiem Hicks’s experience in the league helped the team so far?
Akiem Hick's experience has extended well beyond the field as he has been a valuable. His personality in the locker room boosts the spirit of the team, and his guidance toward our young players has had a visible impact on their development.
What is the status of Joel Bitonio and when is he set to return?
He is progressing, but he is not game ready yet. We will continue to monitor and make sure he is at 100%.
What makes Derrick Henry so good?
He has a rear combination of size and speed that sets him apart from any other back in the league. He is one of the most difficult players in the league to tackle, and combine break away speed with that and you have a special player.
Can you describe how important it was to get a win at home this week?
When stepping on the field our goal is always going to be walking away with a victory. However, it is extra special when you can deliver it at home and hear the roar of a loyal fan base. It increases moral for us all.
I want to ask you about the receiver position in general. How have you seen that position evolve in importance over the years and how does having a player like WR Amari Cooper sort of factor into that perspective?
When you have a player like Amari Cooper on the field defenses have to actively game plan to shut a guy at that level down, and that opens up the opportunity for other players to step up and make an impact. We have talent that is going to capitalize on those situations, and Cooper has the talent to make plays even when a defense is actively trying to shut him down. If they don't game plan for him, he will make you pay.
Did you scout Peter Skoronski before the draft? If so, what stood out about him?
Peter Skoronski is certainly a great talent, and everything we've seen indicates he has what it takes to become a premier player in the league. The Titans have given him lots of praise and he has quite a task in his young career going up against the likes of Myles Garrett.
How do you see the competition level in the AFC North currently?
Its a division that is really up in the air. The consensus around the division is that it is one of the worst in the league, but I feel anyone of these can be competitive on any given Sunday.
How do you rank the biggest changes to this team over the off-season by importance? What do you think were the team's best moves? Was there anything you wish you would have done that didn't get to do?
One of the glaring issues with this roster was the structuring of contracts. There is talent everywhere, but there was a lack of awareness in the way money was allocated, and the team is in a situation now where tough decisions must be made too correct that. Unfortunately, this team is going to look much different a season from now, and its out of our hands in a lot of ways.
When the schedules were released this past offseason, analysts said you had one of the easier schedules they've seen. Do you see it that way as well?
Things are so unpredictable in this league that I don't think there is any value to making assumptions or predictions early on. We are taking this on a week by week basis and formulating a plan for each team and taking it all in stride.
Can you speak to the overall team health?
We have had a couple big injuries lately and that is always unfortunate as we want are guys to be healthy. However, when it happens the nature of the game is that you have to have that next man up mentality and that's on us as a coaching staff to have these guys ready on any given day even if they aren't always seeing the field. We feel like we have done a good job with that.
