QB Marcus Mariota, WAS (2 Viewers)

[matuski]

Trying my best to relay this, not perfect quoting but...

Jimmy Johnson was on the radio going off about how teams should only develop one QB at a time. He said people don't think about the in-season work that's put in. A young quarterback has to have contributors to the meeting room and to practices and maybe even the game plan. When there is more than one, team's are not discussing the finer points of the game in meetings and he wonders if there even is a capable QB testing the defense during the week.

After a bit, the host brought up Mariota and LaFleur and their struggles

He said, you want to fix that team? Sign two quarterbacks that are 36 37 years old. They will contribute in meetings and help him out (development) and they won't be quiet if the offense isn't performing well. They'll bring ideas.

what about if they have to play?

There's never a bad time to put a real field general on the field. If you think back to the classic QB, he's pointing before the snap, communicating....he's getting everyone in line to do things the right way. They might lose a game but they'll be better off the next week because he's been correcting players all game long. 

Just plan on losing a game?

There isn't a coach in this league that can't gameplan for a savvy old QB. Their problem usually is asking the old guy to do what the young guy does and that won't happen. You got plays in your playbook that suit him, hopefully a running game, you can make it work. 

Many have the Titans drafting a QB plus they had two veterans this year in Davis and Gabbert?

How well do those two know the game? Journeymen aren't always taught. You gotta be careful with them. They could travel team to team and just pick up the basics. I don't know those two but from here it looks like they aren't the type I'm looking for.

Draft?

No. Might as well trade Mariota then. If you're gonna have your QB coach teaching the offense to the rookie that means the coordinator is running around to the other 11 on the field and that's not enough time for Marcus. 

Wow, I bet titans fans won't want to hear that

Ya know one more thing, let me put it another way. Gil Brandt pointed something out to me years ago. Not in drills but 11 on 11, when they're on the field, where are the backup QBs? That will tell you everything. Teams with the veteran QBs have them standing in the backfield discussing, teams with projects have them on the sidelines. Which is better for the starter? It's like a braintrust and it's empowering.

How does Vrabel do it? Do you know?

All the videos I saw had him behind the offense. That tells me he doesn't have that braintrust. I know where he comes from. Ever watch Brady in practice? He turns to the backup and comments on a play, backup is pointing...there's discussion. Why have Jimmy G and Cassel and so many QBs left the Patriots to perform well? They learned. Go to a Patriots practice, Belichick might be back there, McDaniels, there could be 7-8 guys. And another thing, that's the view. That's the look you want. Every coach would be on the field if they could, not on the sideline. See what he's seeing, discuss it.

Did you change things after hearing from Brandt?

Right away. Some of the best advice I ever got. That's even where I go when I want to talk to a team. I'm not standing on the sideline unless they make me. If the network sends me to get a background on a team, I want that view. 

Do they?

Not really. I kind of miss it.

Now Mariota's backups are the excuse?

I admit, this is the first time I have seen this one used.

 

[matuski]

Time to cut bait imho.

 

[Interseptopus]

I thought of that too. Didn't they get rid of Walsh and bring Wade Wilson in?

Deadpool?

 

[msommer]

Deadpool?

He's pretty accurate...

 

[Bri]

Now Mariota's backups are the excuse?

I admit, this is the first time I have seen this one used.

I'm not defending Marcus every time you feel the need to bash him. You read what you want and take it as a cue to bash him, not the entire thread or other posts or anything of the sort. I'm not going back and reiterating because you're too lazy to read or just plain don't want to because it's a MB. I can understand the latter method but that doesn't mean I'm replying.

MM8 is a great person with an excellent "yes coach" mindset. There IS a problem with his development so we discuss it. 

There is no way to go back in time and re-develop Sam Bradford but he is, and probably always will be, the prototype for a rookie QB. "What went wrong" made for interesting discussions. Bradford has now fizzled and his career could be over. Mariota is at a mid-point (if comparing to Bradford) of his career and many of us are hopeful that this or that will happen for MM8 to succeed.

Mariota getting 400 yards one week is something. Best ever TD to INT ratio in the red zone is significant. Fourth quarter/comeback wins stats are excellent. Only failing once on "and 1s" is probably best ever. When he outruns a D for 80 yards, how many QBs can do that? Although you criticize his arm, I bet he's one of maybe ten starters that can throw deep across the field from one sideline to the other while running.

His ad-libbing while on the run is as good as all the famous college QBs, but does that work in the NFL? Should they have spent more time thinking "college offense" rather than what he's had? 

What he's had is a 3TE offense and a first year OC offense. No QB is racking up big yardage in a 3 TE offense and most first year OCs probably struggle.

He's had more failed high draft pick WRs than any QB I can think of(Wright, Hunter, DGB). Whether you want speed, size, ups, quickness...those three offered tremendous athletic traits and were lauded by many but they didn't pan out. WR coach was fired, amongst others. What can ya do? That's part of the NFL life too. 

Matthews is treated poorly then quits. Delanie gets hurts. Those were his guys- both of which were top 5 and top 10 on third down recently which does denote some excellent play by Marcus at crucial times. Which NFL QB rocks when they lose their top two targets?

Other than them, the WRs he's had have not reached a point where they're predictably very good or they were just journeymen.

More coaches and OCs than anyone except Bradford and probably right in line with Bradford. Titans GM JRob just likened learning a new offense to learning a new foreign language, so the Titans have spent more time(analogy) teaching Marcus to be a translator than to be a quarterback.

Bradford and Marcus are good soldiers that do whatever the coach asks. There is a different game on the field than just Xs and Os. Marcus has been outstanding at audibling and changing plays at the line of scrimmage but he's also had two OCs that took this ability away from him after he did so well. We assume their ego was hurt. This, however, is part of becoming a star- he must take the Xs and Os, the coaches thoughts, and add his own on the field. Taking audibles away though seems to make him revert to the good soldier mindset and that's not good for him, nor does it suit his athleticism. 

LaFleur was not good with Griffin or Manziel. He (and McVay and Shanny) was not good at teaching when to adlib when to be a good soldier, how to distinguish. It's not surprising that Mariota struggled. To say Griffin was overrated or Manziel never had it would ignore Griffin's rookie year or Manziels preseason and good moments as a rookie. There are garbage QBs in the NFL that come into games and I know the team is about to lose. They offer no hope. Manziel's nerve and feet would be better than so many of those guys. When I saw Griffin play this past summer, he looked like Bledsoe. What did they do to him? He had such legs and the guy was a statue. On the other side, there are guys like Russel Wilson (many QBs) that have the freedom to roll and buy some time. Marcus doesn't usually have that and when he does, he's in good boy mode staying in the pocket. Mularkey used to say things like "we told him he could move around" and Mularkey thought it'd be turning this ability on and off like a switch. Yes this week, no this week. They've completely botched Marcus' athleticism being an advantage.  

Sacks. Conklin changed things and Marcus got time for two years. His rookie year and this past year, he got shellacked like sooo many QBs that haven't panned out. I'll never forget watching David Carr at Giants camp. Beautiful throws, such an arm in drills and non-contact practice. When they went live, he looked like a chick yelling "ahhhh" and running away from something. The Ravens sacked Marcus 12 times in one game this year. How does that affect him? When is the point that too many sacks causes fear in QBs? Robiske had plays where the RB was to pickup a DT or DE. Since that's stupid, Marcus got hit so hard many times. What's it like to call a play knowing a 5-10 200 pound guy is to block a 310 pound beast? 

Mularkey's clever idea was to dust off a 1960s offense and have the Titans run it. The WRs were like splitends in high school, lined up where you'd expect an H-back. Guess who they had to chip/tap before going out for a route? Yep the DEs. Not only would the routes all largely be in the center of the field, but the DE was "free" after this chip. A RB was available to block one of the free DEs. 

Per one site re timing, Marcus threw 27 snap n throws this year. The Rams offense was built to be based off this with Goff throwing immediately, almost exclusively, his first so many games. Why did LaFleur change that? 

Marcus has the least throwaways of any starter this year. The most sacks in losing or tied games. That seems to be on him. Live to play another play. However, he did this his first three years so why isn't he throwing it away with the new staff? What'd they tell this good soldier?  

No one would disagree that Whisenhunt was awful ( Leinart had fascinating things to say after Whis was fired) or that a 3 TE offense or 1960s offense isn't suited to great QB stats. Learn the game from Weeden, Gabbert, Davis, Fitz, Mett...aside from Cassel no one would be like "yes, I'm glad my team added that guy" (maybe Fitz now, but his whole career I mean)and that sentiment matches the Titans coaches he's had. Do you see Whis or Mularkey filling the current openings? Fans clamoring for them to be hired?

There is a definite disconnect between what is Marcus' fault and what isn't.  It would be fantastic to be in here discussing how Mike Shanahan or Mike McCarthy are teaching him XYZ. That hasn't been the case though

There ya go, now I'm done replying to your bashing. Drink it in, or don't. That's where fans are at with MM8. 

 

[matuski]

I'm not defending Marcus every time you feel the need to bash him. You read what you want and take it as a cue to bash him, not the entire thread or other posts or anything of the sort. I'm not going back and reiterating because you're too lazy to read or just plain don't want to because it's a MB. I can understand the latter method but that doesn't mean I'm replying.

MM8 is a great person with an excellent "yes coach" mindset. There IS a problem with his development so we discuss it. 

There is no way to go back in time and re-develop Sam Bradford but he is, and probably always will be, the prototype for a rookie QB. "What went wrong" made for interesting discussions. Bradford has now fizzled and his career could be over. Mariota is at a mid-point (if comparing to Bradford) of his career and many of us are hopeful that this or that will happen for MM8 to succeed.

Mariota getting 400 yards one week is something. Best ever TD to INT ratio in the red zone is significant. Fourth quarter/comeback wins stats are excellent. Only failing once on "and 1s" is probably best ever. When he outruns a D for 80 yards, how many QBs can do that? Although you criticize his arm, I bet he's one of maybe ten starters that can throw deep across the field from one sideline to the other while running.

His ad-libbing while on the run is as good as all the famous college QBs, but does that work in the NFL? Should they have spent more time thinking "college offense" rather than what he's had? 

What he's had is a 3TE offense and a first year OC offense. No QB is racking up big yardage in a 3 TE offense and most first year OCs probably struggle.

He's had more failed high draft pick WRs than any QB I can think of(Wright, Hunter, DGB). Whether you want speed, size, ups, quickness...those three offered tremendous athletic traits and were lauded by many but they didn't pan out. WR coach was fired, amongst others. What can ya do? That's part of the NFL life too. 

Matthews is treated poorly then quits. Delanie gets hurts. Those were his guys- both of which were top 5 and top 10 on third down recently which does denote some excellent play by Marcus at crucial times. Which NFL QB rocks when they lose their top two targets?

Other than them, the WRs he's had have not reached a point where they're predictably very good or they were just journeymen.

More coaches and OCs than anyone except Bradford and probably right in line with Bradford. Titans GM JRob just likened learning a new offense to learning a new foreign language, so the Titans have spent more time(analogy) teaching Marcus to be a translator than to be a quarterback.

Bradford and Marcus are good soldiers that do whatever the coach asks. There is a different game on the field than just Xs and Os. Marcus has been outstanding at audibling and changing plays at the line of scrimmage but he's also had two OCs that took this ability away from him after he did so well. We assume their ego was hurt. This, however, is part of becoming a star- he must take the Xs and Os, the coaches thoughts, and add his own on the field. Taking audibles away though seems to make him revert to the good soldier mindset and that's not good for him, nor does it suit his athleticism. 

LaFleur was not good with Griffin or Manziel. He (and McVay and Shanny) was not good at teaching when to adlib when to be a good soldier, how to distinguish. It's not surprising that Mariota struggled. To say Griffin was overrated or Manziel never had it would ignore Griffin's rookie year or Manziels preseason and good moments as a rookie. There are garbage QBs in the NFL that come into games and I know the team is about to lose. They offer no hope. Manziel's nerve and feet would be better than so many of those guys. When I saw Griffin play this past summer, he looked like Bledsoe. What did they do to him? He had such legs and the guy was a statue. On the other side, there are guys like Russel Wilson (many QBs) that have the freedom to roll and buy some time. Marcus doesn't usually have that and when he does, he's in good boy mode staying in the pocket. Mularkey used to say things like "we told him he could move around" and Mularkey thought it'd be turning this ability on and off like a switch. Yes this week, no this week. They've completely botched Marcus' athleticism being an advantage.  

Sacks. Conklin changed things and Marcus got time for two years. His rookie year and this past year, he got shellacked like sooo many QBs that haven't panned out. I'll never forget watching David Carr at Giants camp. Beautiful throws, such an arm in drills and non-contact practice. When they went live, he looked like a chick yelling "ahhhh" and running away from something. The Ravens sacked Marcus 12 times in one game this year. How does that affect him? When is the point that too many sacks causes fear in QBs? Robiske had plays where the RB was to pickup a DT or DE. Since that's stupid, Marcus got hit so hard many times. What's it like to call a play knowing a 5-10 200 pound guy is to block a 310 pound beast? 

Mularkey's clever idea was to dust off a 1960s offense and have the Titans run it. The WRs were like splitends in high school, lined up where you'd expect an H-back. Guess who they had to chip/tap before going out for a route? Yep the DEs. Not only would the routes all largely be in the center of the field, but the DE was "free" after this chip. A RB was available to block one of the free DEs. 

Per one site re timing, Marcus threw 27 snap n throws this year. The Rams offense was built to be based off this with Goff throwing immediately, almost exclusively, his first so many games. Why did LaFleur change that? 

Marcus has the least throwaways of any starter this year. The most sacks in losing or tied games. That seems to be on him. Live to play another play. However, he did this his first three years so why isn't he throwing it away with the new staff? What'd they tell this good soldier?  

No one would disagree that Whisenhunt was awful ( Leinart had fascinating things to say after Whis was fired) or that a 3 TE offense or 1960s offense isn't suited to great QB stats. Learn the game from Weeden, Gabbert, Davis, Fitz, Mett...aside from Cassel no one would be like "yes, I'm glad my team added that guy" (maybe Fitz now, but his whole career I mean)and that sentiment matches the Titans coaches he's had. Do you see Whis or Mularkey filling the current openings? Fans clamoring for them to be hired?

There is a definite disconnect between what is Marcus' fault and what isn't.  It would be fantastic to be in here discussing how Mike Shanahan or Mike McCarthy are teaching him XYZ. That hasn't been the case though

There ya go, now I'm done replying to your bashing. Drink it in, or don't. That's where fans are at with MM8. 

He ABSOLUTELY seems to be a fine young man.  He ABSOLUTELY did not have several things go his way with coaches and scheme and team.  AND - He is not a good NFL quarterback.

I'm not bashing him.  I just have an opinion on it.  You aren't his guardian angel, please don't feel the need to pour walls of text every time someone notes the obvious... 

4 years in - he is what he is going to be... he hasn't won, he hasn't produced, he hasn't stayed on the field, he hasn't improved (easier to argue he regressed).  Long posts blaming other people for his play (I especially enjoyed how the backup QBs had let him down), cherry picking minutia stats and individual games, arguing he is a nice guy - doesn't change it.  Going into year 5, the team will blow it if they commit big $ to this guy.

 

[matuski]

@Bri

I enjoy your insight and posting. Your insight to the politics, injuries, rumors etc... all great.

Please don't take offense when I don't agree with the messages you relay.  For example - The backup QB not developing Mariota story came from Johnson, not you.  When I tear that down for the ridiculousness it is, I am not attacking you or the player.  I am just amazed at this point how far people are bending over to make excuses.  

I enjoy debating the games and players here.  When I argue a player is not good at his position, that isn't anything personal.  It is what I see when I watch.

 

[Faust]

Titans coach Mike Vrabel confirmed Marcus Mariota will be the starter.

"Obviously if Marcus is healthy, and he’s available, he’s our starter," Vrabel said. It does not feel like this needed to be confirmed, but both Vrabel and GM Jon Robinson have said Mariota will remain the starter in the wake of the Ryan Tannehill trade. Despite these comments, Mariota's long-term future with the Titans remains up in the air as he enters the final year of his rookie contract.

SOURCE: titansonline.com

Mar 25, 2019, 10:09 AM

 

[squistion]

Titans coach Mike Vrabel confirmed Marcus Mariota will be the starter.

"Obviously if Marcus is healthy, and he’s available, he’s our starter," Vrabel said. It does not feel like this needed to be confirmed, but both Vrabel and GM Jon Robinson have said Mariota will remain the starter in the wake of the Ryan Tannehill trade. Despite these comments, Mariota's long-term future with the Titans remains up in the air as he enters the final year of his rookie contract.

I didn't think so either.

 

[Bri]

Now that Marcus' full list of injuries last year has been released...holy cow. What a trooper!

The other side is this reaffirms his injury prone label and they're going to have to protect him better

 

[Faust]

Marcus Mariota focused on health over new contract

Marcus Mariota played through a ridiculous list of injuries in 2018. Should he get a pass?

 

[Faust]

Titans Owner Amy Adams Strunk on Marcus Mariota: “I Want Him To Be Our Franchise Quarterback.”

 

[Faust]

Pick Six Podcast: Could Patriots target Marcus Mariota as a Tom Brady replacement in 2020?

 

[Faust]

Mariota adding weight to stay 'healthy for a full year'

 

[Bri]

Marcus has developed a friendship with Brady.

The draft logistics people have inquired several times if Marcus is going to be traded.

The Pats have picks they can afford to trade.

I've long been hmmm about Belichick's love for Marcus.

I've been told over n over there is nothing here. So what he made a friend. The draft people inquire every year. So what to the rest. 

My thoughts are but, but, but...but I'm told it's nothing and coincidental

 

[Faust]

No excuses for Marcus Mariota heading into make-or-break season

 

[Faust]

New pass-catchers should help Titans get clearer picture on Marcus Mariota

 

[jm192]

He isn't awful.  That Sophomore season he had 26 TD's and 9 INT's.  

Going into last season, he lost his top pass catcher in Walker.  He can't get through a season healthy.  

I believe he can be a good NFL QB.  I worry he'll always miss a couple of games and keep his fantasy value down.  He just can't keep having the constant nagging injuries that drags his play down.  

With Walker back, Davis in his 3rd year, a nice rookie receiver in Brown AND Humphries--this will be far and away his best pass catching group.  If he can stay healthy, he's a decent value pick.  Again that's a big IF--but one you can afford at where he'll be drafted.  

 

[Snorkelson]

He isn't awful.  That Sophomore season he had 26 TD's and 9 INT's.  

Going into last season, he lost his top pass catcher in Walker.  He can't get through a season healthy.  

I believe he can be a good NFL QB.  I worry he'll always miss a couple of games and keep his fantasy value down.  He just can't keep having the constant nagging injuries that drags his play down.  

With Walker back, Davis in his 3rd year, a nice rookie receiver in Brown AND Humphries--this will be far and away his best pass catching group.  If he can stay healthy, he's a decent value pick.  Again that's a big IF--but one you can afford at where he'll be drafted.  

I feel like we can go back a few years and find the same quote, only insert “walker, nice rookie wrs davis and Taylor, Rishard Mathews coming off a solid showing, a nice 2nd year from Tajae sharpe, and he can be a top 12 QB!”

 

[Snorkelson]

I am this guys biggest fan this year.

Man crushing on his soon to be greatness HARD. Silent on him right now, especially with how many weapons he has now. 

Davis

Mathews

Decker

Walker

Sharpe

The RBs

That is a bunch of artillery. 

Here’s one from 2017...

 

[jm192]

I feel like we can go back a few years and find the same quote, only insert “walker, nice rookie wrs davis and Taylor, Rishard Mathews coming off a solid showing, a nice 2nd year from Tajae sharpe, and he can be a top 12 QB!”

No doubt.  

I think 2 years ago, he was a rising star and you had to pay higher.  The world is soured on him at this point, he's virtually free.  

 

[-OZ-]

I feel like we can go back a few years and find the same quote, only insert “walker, nice rookie wrs davis and Taylor, Rishard Mathews coming off a solid showing, a nice 2nd year from Tajae sharpe, and he can be a top 12 QB!”

You're right. And there are multiple variations of this for many players. 

The key with MM is health. Consistency in the offense would be nice too, but that's only if he can stay reasonably healthy. 

 

[JoeSteeler]

in one of my 16 team leagues he was traded 4 times last year! 16 team deep (53 man rosters) salary cap IDP league

Team 2 gave up Year 2018 Draft Pick 1.05
Team 1 gave up Mariota, Marcus TEN QB; Year 2018 Draft Pick 1.14
Aug 2nd
 

Team 3 gave up Howard, Jordan CHI RB; Jordan, Cameron NOS DE; Marshall, Brandon DEN LB; Reid, Eric CAR S; Year 2018 Draft Pick 3.12; Year 2018 Draft Pick 6.12
Team 2 gave up Mariota, Marcus TEN QB; Year 2018 Draft Pick 1.11; Year 2018 Draft Pick 3.01; Year 2018 Draft Pick 3.02; Year 2019 Round 2 Draft Pick; Year 2020 Round 1 Draft Pick 
Aug 10th
 

Team 3 gave up Mariota, Marcus TEN QB; Anderson, Stephen NEP TE
Team 4 gave up Thompson, Chris WAS RB; Westbrook, Dede JAC WR; Year 2018 Draft Pick 3.06
Aug 10th again
 

Team 5 gave up Meredith, Cameron NOS WR; Dickson, Ed SEA TE; Quinn, Robert MIA DE; Year 2019 Round 2 Draft Pick 
Team 4 gave up Mariota, Marcus TEN QB
Nov 6th
 

 

[matuski]

Mariota adding weight to stay 'healthy for a full year'

Haven't most of his injuries been non contact related?  Last year was his elbow or wrist right?

 

[Bri]

Haven't most of his injuries been non contact related?  Last year was his elbow or wrist right?

nope. It's usually thought of as "who missed a block" and some are no longer with the team. It sounds mafia-esque but it's more that the team is just better now and the offense was awful like Antonio Andrews having to block a DT. Who scripts that?

Right, elbow, shoulder, wrist. Too swollen, pinched a nerve was the expression people said but really they weren't badly swollen. Instead it was like the other kind of carpal tunnel. Around the elbow, the nerve moves over and when healed (or from surgery) it moves back in place. I didn't know this existed. It's called cubital carpal tunnel. So we had Vrabel trying to be Belichickian and update injuries yet say nothing and Marcus having a nerve prob where everything hurt because...it's all going to until that nerve is back in place. It led to junk reporting and confusion because "my wrist hurts" may be true, but the wrist was fine, the nerve wasn't in the right spot

 

[Snorkelson]

in one of my 16 team leagues he was traded 4 times last year! 16 team deep (53 man rosters) salary cap IDP league

Team 2 gave up Year 2018 Draft Pick 1.05
Team 1 gave up Mariota, Marcus TEN QB; Year 2018 Draft Pick 1.14
Aug 2nd
 

Team 3 gave up Howard, Jordan CHI RB; Jordan, Cameron NOS DE; Marshall, Brandon DEN LB; Reid, Eric CAR S; Year 2018 Draft Pick 3.12; Year 2018 Draft Pick 6.12
Team 2 gave up Mariota, Marcus TEN QB; Year 2018 Draft Pick 1.11; Year 2018 Draft Pick 3.01; Year 2018 Draft Pick 3.02; Year 2019 Round 2 Draft Pick; Year 2020 Round 1 Draft Pick 
Aug 10th
 

Team 3 gave up Mariota, Marcus TEN QB; Anderson, Stephen NEP TE
Team 4 gave up Thompson, Chris WAS RB; Westbrook, Dede JAC WR; Year 2018 Draft Pick 3.06
Aug 10th again
 

Team 5 gave up Meredith, Cameron NOS WR; Dickson, Ed SEA TE; Quinn, Robert MIA DE; Year 2019 Round 2 Draft Pick 
Team 4 gave up Mariota, Marcus TEN QB
Nov 6th
 

Team 2 didn’t make out very well. 

Team 3 did well.

 

[Faust]

Mariota on approach to contract season: 'Let it ride'

 

[Faust]

Paul Kuharsky reports Marcus Mariota plans to play 12-13 pounds heavier than he was in 2018, checking in around 230.

Kuharsky reports that the change was at the behest of the team, and that Mariota had previously emphasized agility over weight, which the coaching staff hopes will increase Mariota's durability. In four seasons, Mariota has never appeared in all 16 games. Mariota finds himself in the Ryan Tannehill zone in Nashville, entering into what seems to be his last chance to claim the starting job for the long haul. Ironically, it is Tannehill who will be backing him up.

SOURCE: paulkuharsky.com

May 28, 2019, 1:37 PM ET

 

[Faust]

Observations from Thursday's Titans OTA, When QB Marcus Mariota Looked Sharp

 

[Faust]

Tennessee Titans: Marcus Mariota and receivers are clicking on all cylinders

 

[matuski]

GLOWING reports about Mariota during OTAs. 

People are scared to project too positive too high stats for this season. It sounds like he's either gonna burn ya for FF or make your season for FF. 

Vrabel has had Jonnu Smith as the FB and at WR during OTAs. (Jonnu is possibly the best downfield blocker in the NFL. He's amazing) Vrabel has been adamant about WRs needing to block when Mariota runs and being what keeps him healthy or gets him injured. Smith supposedly was the example guy for the WRs. The plan is very much for Mariota to run a lot this year and they're working on the blocking for that. 

Vrabel explained that if they block well and Mariota gets hurt, he can live with that- he won't want to, but football is what it is. He can't tolerate a sitting duck scenario and he will not. He mentioned Parcells benching WRs for not blocking well (Meshawn) and said he's never forgotten that and will do the same. 

Akrum Wadley was sat for watching Mariota run by. Lewis and Henry blocked well.

Backup QBs will be expected to run. He said it's not all about Marcus' speed but about execution. If they block well, a QB should be able to waltz on through. 

Each day of OTAs, Vrabel was blown away by Marcus though. It's like Whisenhunt, Mularkey, Peter King, Bill Cowher....anyone that spent a week at Titans camp... they just fall in love with Marcus. 

Marcus has been extremely critical of every throw like he did as a rookie. People seem to have forgotten his almost OCD like tendency with that. 

Corey Davis had been awful at turning his shoulders and where to expect the ball. Marcus got on him time and again and supposedly Davis shined after. 

Marcus throws a deep ball real soft for the WR to run under it and calls this an air ball. He doesn't think anyone can stop Taylor if he throws it right, says it's on him 100%. 

On some trick play, Marcus tossed to Lewis, Lewis paused, then threw a pass to Marcus. On another, he flipped it backward to Marcus. Marcus was blocking on some wide runs by Lewis. There seems to be a love of trick plays between them.

Marcus complimented Tajae as most improved.

Davis 3/4 speed reminds him of Michael Jordan. At full speed, he doesn't have the same body control. He said they're working on things and he's starting to realize the difference there. Jordan comment asked and he said Davis can catch anything anywhere near him, anything, and it's something ya gotta see to believe.

~ a year ago.

This post has it all.

He might make your FF season.  Mariota will run a lot.  MM fluff.

Nobody can stop Taylor but MM.. oops?  Corey Davis = Michael Jordan

@Dr. Dan a couple posts later predicting MM as top 5.   :X

Can't wait for the 2019 desperation hype.

This thread really needs to turn its focus towards the next Oregon rookie.

 

[skinfanjon]

~ a year ago.

This post has it all.

He might make your FF season.  Mariota will run a lot.  MM fluff.

Nobody can stop Taylor but MM.. oops?  Corey Davis = Michael Jordan

@Dr. Dan a couple posts later predicting MM as top 5.   :X

Can't wait for the 2019 desperation hype.

This thread really needs to turn its focus towards the next Oregon rookie.

You've been bang on accurate in this thread and the comp to Dak is spot on.  Hope the Cowboys throw that cash at him so badly.

 

[Faust]

Ten Titans Who Stood Out in OTAs, Minicamp

Excerpt:

QB Marcus Mariota – Wasn’t perfect all offseason, and had some off days. But Mariota had many more good days than bad ones by far. And he looks confident after his own weight gain.

 

[Faust]

Titans GM Jon Robinson wants Marcus Mariota to avoid unnecessary hits.

Injuries have cost Mariota eight games since his arrival in 2015 and limited his effectiveness in several others. Mariota has often put himself in harm's way by trying to extend plays, though Robinson would rather the fifth-year quarterback embrace the team's "live to play another play" philosophy. "If you feel the pocket coming down on you and you take off running, and the ‘backer is coming off of coverage and he’s coming screaming at you, throw the ball away," said Robinson. "It’s okay to punt, we’ll get another crack at it." In an effort to improve his durability, the former Heisman Trophy winner has reportedly put on 12-13 pounds this offseason.

SOURCE: Sports Illustrated

Jun 24, 2019, 8:50 AM ET

 

[Faust]

State of the Franchise: Marcus Mariota's last stand with Titans?

 

[TheWinz]

The Titans were 31st in pass attempts (437), ahead of only SEA (427).  We all know Russell Wilson can have a QB1 season with so few attempts (he was QB10).  The next fewest attempts while finishing as a QB1 was Drew Brees (QB8 on 489 attempts).  Here were last season's top 10 FF QB's - Mahomes, Ryan, Roethlisberger, Watson, Luck, Goff, Rodgers, Brees, Cousins, and Wilson.  Of this list, only 3 were not in the top 10 in pass attempts - Watson, Brees, and Wilson.  That's some pretty good company to be in, and Mariota's name doesn't slip off the tongue when you say those 3 names.  Mariota would likely have to throw it a ton more to finish as a top 10, and I don't see that happening. 

 

[JoeJoe88]

The Titans were 31st in pass attempts (437), ahead of only SEA (427).  We all know Russell Wilson can have a QB1 season with so few attempts (he was QB10).  The next fewest attempts while finishing as a QB1 was Drew Brees (QB8 on 489 attempts).  Here were last season's top 10 FF QB's - Mahomes, Ryan, Roethlisberger, Watson, Luck, Goff, Rodgers, Brees, Cousins, and Wilson.  Of this list, only 3 were not in the top 10 in pass attempts - Watson, Brees, and Wilson.  That's some pretty good company to be in, and Mariota's name doesn't slip off the tongue when you say those 3 names.  Mariota would likely have to throw it a ton more to finish as a top 10, and I don't see that happening. 

Neither do I,  but as a dynasty owner it’d be a win for me if he could just stay on the field for a full season at this point. 

 

[dipandglide]

I'm buying where I can. He is a solid QB2 with upside if he can stay healthy (this is 2qb dynasty leagues I'm talking). 

 

[Faust]

2019 NFL preview: Titans need Marcus Mariota to stay healthy, and play better too

 

[Faust]

Vrabel on QB position: You want a guy for 7-10 years

 

[TheWinz]

In his first 4 years, he finished QB22, QB13, QB17, and QB26.  In his 27 starts during his first 2 seasons, he averaged 231 passing yards, 1.7 passing TD's, and .7 INT's.  In his 28 starts during the last 2 seasons, he averaged 206 passing yards, .86 passing TD's, and .82 INT's.  Those numbers suggest he is regressing rather than progressing.  For a mobile QB who needs rushing stats to bolster his ranking, he has yet to play 16 games.  And for those that say his per game stats make him better than his final rank, the fact is he did finish with those ranks, and he did miss games.  A quick check showed that nearly half of all starting QB's over the last 4 yrs have started all 16 games, and that number would be even higher if you factor in healthy guys resting for the playoffs.

No matter how you slice it, he is not a good passing QB on a run-oriented team, and that combo does not make for FF excellence.

 

[Bri]

Mariota haters are gonna eat this up but fans will like it.

Vrabel wants Mariota aggressive this year and that seems to be his theme for camp. Mariota was teased with the cheerleader B E Aggressive by teammates but many thought he looked good like he's playing with a chip on his shoulder.

His quietness has been genuinely passive and other times mistaken for passive. It makes sense for Vrabel to preach this

 

[dipandglide]

@BriWhat is your read on Mariota longterm? The injuries have hurt his development. I like his chances to bounce back if he can stay healthy. 

 

[Bri]

@BriWhat is your read on Mariota longterm? The injuries have hurt his development. I like his chances to bounce back if he can stay healthy. 

Somewhere else. Maybe Smith lets him use his legs and I feel different, but they've never let Mariota be Mariota

 

[Bri]

Smith said he wants Mariota to play free. That's again what ya want to hear

 

[BoltBacker]

Somewhere else. Maybe Smith lets him use his legs and I feel different, but they've never let Mariota be Mariota

I agree with this, and have tried to pick him up in dynasty leagues.

Mariota would be best suited for either a spread out offense or a dink and dunk offense that highlighted his mobility and accuracy imo. Part of me would love to see TEN give up on him so he could get out of this slow paced, plodding offense. In particular I think it would be funny if NE picked him up for peanuts to replace Brady. He always comes across to me as a very smart guy that can actually eek out wins and maximize his situation. I think he would be a great fit for a BB offense.

 

[Alex P Keaton]

I agree with this, and have tried to pick him up in dynasty leagues.

Mariota would be best suited for either a spread out offense or a dink and dunk offense that highlighted his mobility and accuracy imo. Part of me would love to see TEN give up on him so he could get out of this slow paced, plodding offense. In particular I think it would be funny if NE picked him up for peanuts to replace Brady. He always comes across to me as a very smart guy that can actually eek out wins and maximize his situation. I think he would be a great fit for a BB offense.

Is he really that accurate?  Every time I see him play, he a) struggles to hit receivers in stride, b) waits until guys are wide open instead of throwing them open.

 

[BoltBacker]

Is he really that accurate?  Every time I see him play, he a) struggles to hit receivers in stride, b) waits until guys are wide open instead of throwing them open.

I think "b" is a valid criticism and that is part of his personality. Alex Smith has some of the same tendencies. But that also may contribute to Mariotas team consistently finishing above .500 year after year. He really is the anti-Winston in almost every way. Winston makes all the gutsy throws and puts up gaudy fantasy numbers..... and his NFL team disappoints year after year. 

I think "a" is to some degree a product of the offense that he's been in. This coming season with the additions of Humphries and AJ Brown I think he finally has some receivers that compliment his play style, much more than Corey Davis(who I don't think is terrible BTW, just a bad fit for Mariota). I worry a little bit when Bri says the Titans thinks the problem is he just needs to be more "aggressive" because I don't think that's his personality. If they could just run the same number of plays and in particular the same number of passing plays as the average NFL offense we would see Mariota better able to sustain a rhythm.... but having better receivers this year certainly won't hurt. Keep in mind Alex Smith wasn't successful being "aggressive" downfield until Tyreek Hill blossomed and suddenly you had a guy 30+ yards downfield who was open. IMO one of the reasons Mariota is so reviled in the fantasy community is he throws so few passes, and he doesn't have a Tyler Lockett to make separation down field and run after catch. I still don't think they have that deep ball threat so if he's just chucking balls downfield to Davis to make his coaches happy I don't think that's a recipe for success. I do think Humphries/Brown are capable of creating separation on short/intermediate routes though and that plays to his strengths. While I think Walker is nearing the end he also adds a safety valve in that he really knows how to find the soft spot in a zone.

I certainly don't know Mariota or the Titans as well as Bri but those are my impressions from watching the Titans. They are built to narrowly win football games and put up terrible fantasy stats.

 

[Bri]

Is he really that accurate?  Every time I see him play, he a) struggles to hit receivers in stride, b) waits until guys are wide open instead of throwing them open.

He's had some OMG awful offensive coordinators and when you rewatch games, it's so obvious. 

 

[Bri]

I agree with this, and have tried to pick him up in dynasty leagues.

Mariota would be best suited for either a spread out offense or a dink and dunk offense that highlighted his mobility and accuracy imo. Part of me would love to see TEN give up on him so he could get out of this slow paced, plodding offense. In particular I think it would be funny if NE picked him up for peanuts to replace Brady. He always comes across to me as a very smart guy that can actually eek out wins and maximize his situation. I think he would be a great fit for a BB offense.

Belichick loves him. For years, I've been predicting he's Brady's replacement. They practice against each other this camp. (You can google for glowing quotes) I'm curious if BB blows off Mariota comments this year or continues the praise with his contract almost up. Is there posturing? 

If BB had his pick, it'd surely be Casey, Mariota, and Lewan. Last year he shined the light on Finch for the national media, so maybe him too. Belichick is all gruff and...ya gotta see the interviews, he lights up. He loves Casey like ol Richard Seymour. Us Titans fans remember Casey somehow catching Reggie Wayne from behind. The Titans coaches never bring that up, but BB does.