© Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK

 

Seattle Seahawks vs. Tennessee Titans Preseason Game Analysis - August 17, 2024

The NFL preseason is a critical time for teams to evaluate their rosters, fine-tune their strategies, and build momentum heading into the regular season. On August 17, 2024, the Seattle Seahawks and Tennessee Titans will meet in a preseason matchup that promises to be both competitive and informative. Both teams are coming off wins in their preseason openers, making this game an important test for players looking to secure roster spots. In this detailed analysis, we’ll cover everything from the latest odds to key player performances, and provide a prediction for the outcome of the game.

Game Odds

Team	Spread	Moneyline	Over/Under
Seattle Seahawks	+1 (-115)	-105	Over 36.5 (-105)
Tennessee Titans	-1 (-120)	-115	Under 36.5 (-115)

Team Analysis

Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks are coming off a convincing 16-3 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers in their preseason opener. The Seahawks’ defense was the star of the show, holding the Chargers to just 213 total yards and forcing two turnovers. Quarterback Sam Howell led the Seahawks’ offense, completing 16-of-27 passes for 130 yards and a touchdown. Howell’s performance was efficient, though the Seahawks struggled to consistently move the ball, particularly on the ground.

The Seahawks’ rushing attack was led by Kenny McIntosh, who carried the ball eight times for 40 yards. While McIntosh showed flashes of potential, the Seahawks’ offensive line struggled to create consistent running lanes, which limited the effectiveness of the ground game. In the receiving corps, Dareke Young was the standout performer, catching three passes for 44 yards. Young’s ability to stretch the field and make plays after the catch will be important as the Seahawks look to diversify their passing attack.

Defensively, the Seahawks were dominant, particularly in the secondary, where they limited the Chargers to just 136 passing yards. The pass rush was also effective, recording three sacks and consistently pressuring the quarterback. However, the Seahawks have some injury concerns, with tight end Noah Fant and linebacker Jerome Baker both listed as questionable for this game. The Seahawks will need to rely on their depth, particularly on defense, to continue their strong preseason performance.

Tennessee Titans

The Tennessee Titans also started their preseason on a high note with a 17-13 win over the San Francisco 49ers. The Titans’ offense was led by Malik Willis, who showcased his dual-threat ability, rushing for 42 yards on four carries while also completing several key passes. Willis’ mobility and playmaking ability add a dynamic element to the Titans’ offense, though his passing consistency remains a work in progress.

The Titans’ running game was solid, with Willis and Julius Chestnut leading the way. Chestnut, who also contributed in the passing game with two receptions for 37 yards, has been a versatile weapon for the Titans and could play a significant role in this game. The Titans’ offensive line was effective in both run blocking and pass protection, allowing just one sack and opening up lanes for the running backs.

Defensively, the Titans were strong against the run, holding the 49ers to just 79 rushing yards. However, the secondary had some lapses, allowing several big plays through the air. The Titans are dealing with several injuries on defense, with safety Jamal Adams and linebacker Luke Gifford both listed as questionable. These injuries could impact the Titans’ ability to defend against the Seahawks’ passing attack, particularly in the deep secondary.

Coaching Analysis

Seattle Seahawks - Pete Carroll

Pete Carroll, the longtime head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, is known for his defensive expertise and player development. Carroll has consistently fielded competitive teams, and his emphasis on competition at every position has helped the Seahawks build depth across the roster. In the preseason, Carroll’s focus is on evaluating young talent and ensuring that the team is ready for the regular season. Carroll’s defensive philosophy was evident in the Seahawks’ dominant performance against the Chargers, and he will be looking for a similar effort against the Titans.

Offensively, Carroll has entrusted Shane Waldron, the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator, with the task of developing the team’s young quarterbacks and integrating new offensive schemes. Waldron’s ability to maximize the strengths of players like Sam Howell and Kenny McIntosh will be crucial as the Seahawks continue to build their offensive identity. The Seahawks will need to improve their consistency on offense, particularly in the running game, to complement their strong defense.

Tennessee Titans - Mike Vrabel

Mike Vrabel, the head coach of the Tennessee Titans, has established himself as one of the top coaches in the NFL with his aggressive and physical approach to the game. Vrabel’s teams are known for their toughness and discipline, and he has consistently gotten the most out of his roster, even in the face of injuries and adversity. In the preseason, Vrabel’s focus is on evaluating his depth players and ensuring that his team is prepared for the grind of the regular season.

Offensively, Vrabel has worked closely with offensive coordinator Tim Kelly to develop the Titans’ young quarterbacks and implement a balanced attack that emphasizes both the run and the pass. Malik Willis’ development as a dual-threat quarterback is a key storyline for the Titans, and his performance against the Seahawks will be closely watched. Defensively, Vrabel’s teams are known for their physicality and discipline, but the secondary’s lapses in the preseason opener will need to be addressed.

Recent Performance

Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks have had a strong run of form over their last five games, including both the regular season and the preseason. After finishing the 2023 season with three wins in their last four games, the Seahawks started the 2024 preseason with a convincing win over the Chargers. The defense has been the foundation of their success, consistently shutting down opposing offenses and creating turnovers. The offense, while effective, has been more inconsistent, particularly in the running game.

The Seahawks’ ability to control the tempo of the game with their defense and make timely plays on offense has been the key to their recent success. With a deep roster and a strong coaching staff, the Seahawks are well-positioned to continue their winning ways in this preseason matchup against the Titans. The focus will be on maintaining their defensive dominance while finding more consistency on offense.

Tennessee Titans

The Tennessee Titans have also had a positive run of form, winning three of their last five games, including their preseason opener against the 49ers. The Titans’ offense has shown flashes of explosiveness, particularly with Malik Willis under center, but consistency has been an issue. The defense has been solid, particularly against the run, but the secondary has been vulnerable to big plays, which could be a concern against the Seahawks’ passing attack.

The Titans’ ability to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball has been a key factor in their success. However, with several key players dealing with injuries, the Titans will need to rely on their depth and make adjustments to continue their winning ways. The focus will be on improving their pass defense and maintaining a balanced offensive attack as they prepare for the regular season.

Head-to-Head Comparison

The Seattle Seahawks and Tennessee Titans have faced each other infrequently in recent years, with their last regular-season meeting coming in 2023, a game the Seahawks won 20-17. Historically, the Seahawks have had the upper hand in the series, winning three of the last four meetings. However, preseason games are less about historical records and more about evaluating current rosters and schemes.

In this matchup, both teams are looking to build on their preseason success and continue to evaluate their depth players. The Seahawks have the edge in terms of recent performance and defensive consistency, while the Titans have the advantage of playing at home and featuring a dynamic playmaker in Malik Willis. Both teams have areas of concern, particularly in the passing game, making this an intriguing and closely contested matchup.

ATS Records

In the 2023 regular season, the Seattle Seahawks were 10-7 against the spread (ATS), including a 5-3 ATS record on the road. The Seahawks have been a reliable team to bet on, particularly in close games where their defense has kept them in contention. Their preseason opener against the Chargers was another strong showing, as they covered the spread with ease.

The Tennessee Titans were 8-9 ATS in the 2023 season, including a 4-5 ATS record at home. The Titans have been more inconsistent against the spread, particularly in games where they have been favored. However, their preseason opener against the 49ers was a solid performance, as they covered the spread as slight favorites. The spread for this game, with the Titans favored by just one point, reflects the close nature of this matchup.

Betting Stats and Trends

Seattle Seahawks

• The Seahawks are 1-0 ATS in the 2024 preseason, covering the spread against the Los Angeles Chargers.
• Seattle is 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall, including the regular season.
• The total has gone under in three of the Seahawks' last five games, including preseason and regular season.
• The Seahawks have covered the spread in five of their last six games as an underdog.

Tennessee Titans

• The Titans are 1-0 ATS in the 2024 preseason, covering the spread against the San Francisco 49ers.
• Tennessee is 3-2 ATS in their last five games overall, including the regular season.
• The total has gone under in four of the Titans' last five games, including preseason and regular season.
• The Titans have covered the spread in just two of their last six games as a favorite.

Player Spotlight

Seattle Seahawks - Sam Howell

Sam Howell, the Seahawks’ quarterback, had a solid performance in the preseason opener, throwing for 130 yards and a touchdown. Howell’s ability to manage the game and make smart decisions will be crucial as the Seahawks look to continue their winning ways. With the Seahawks’ running game still finding its footing, Howell’s performance will be key to sustaining drives and putting points on the board against a tough Titans defense.

Tennessee Titans - Malik Willis

Malik Willis, the Titans’ dynamic dual-threat quarterback, is the player to watch in this game. Willis’ ability to make plays with both his arm and legs adds a unique dimension to the Titans’ offense. His performance against the Seahawks’ strong defense will be a key factor in determining the outcome of this game. If Willis can improve his passing consistency and continue to make plays on the ground, the Titans will be tough to beat at home.

Injury Impact

Injuries could play a significant role in this game, particularly for the Seattle Seahawks, who have several key players listed as questionable. Tight end Noah Fant and linebacker Jerome Baker are both important contributors, and their absence could impact the Seahawks on both sides of the ball. Without Fant, the Seahawks’ passing game could be less effective, while Baker’s absence would weaken the defense, particularly in pass coverage.

The Tennessee Titans are also dealing with injuries, particularly on defense, where safety Jamal Adams and linebacker Luke Gifford are both questionable. Adams is a key player in the secondary, and his absence could leave the Titans vulnerable to big plays in the passing game. Gifford’s absence would impact the Titans’ ability to defend the run and cover tight ends, which could be a factor against the Seahawks’ balanced attack. The coaching staff will need to make adjustments and rely on their depth to maintain their competitive edge.

Weather and Venue Impact

The weather for this game is expected to be hot, with temperatures around 91 degrees in Nashville. Nissan Stadium, home of the Tennessee Titans, is an outdoor venue, and the heat could be a factor, particularly for players who are not accustomed to such conditions. The Titans, who are used to playing in hot and humid weather, may have an advantage in this regard, as the Seahawks will need to stay hydrated and manage their conditioning to avoid fatigue.

Nissan Stadium is known for its passionate fan base, and even during the preseason, the atmosphere can be challenging for visiting teams. The Titans will look to use their home-field advantage to build momentum and put on a strong performance for their fans. The Seahawks, meanwhile, will need to stay focused and execute their game plan despite the challenging conditions and the hostile crowd.

Historical Context

The Seattle Seahawks and Tennessee Titans have a relatively limited history, with just a handful of regular-season meetings over the years. The most recent meeting came in 2023, a game the Seahawks won 20-17 in a closely contested battle. Historically, the Seahawks have had the edge in the series, winning three of the last four meetings, but the Titans have been competitive in most of these matchups.

This preseason game provides both teams with an opportunity to evaluate their rosters and build momentum for the regular season. While the outcome of the game may not carry the same weight as a regular-season matchup, the performances in this game could have implications for future meetings. Both teams will be looking to gain an edge as they prepare for the challenges ahead in the 2024 season.

Prediction