After leading the Tennessee Titans to a 31-12 victory over the Miami Dolphins on Monday night, QB Mason Rudolph took to the podium to speak with the media.
Yes, Rudolph was more of a game manager after coming in for Will Levis, who injured his shoulder in the first quarter, but he did everything the Titans needed to get their first win of 2024 and the first victory for head coach Brian Callahan. To Rudolph, that accomplishment was bigger than his performance.
.@Titans QB @Rudolph2Mason after Monday’s win. pic.twitter.com/0Xt9OzLQIB
— Jim Wyatt (@jwyattsports) October 1, 2024
“Felt great to win, always feels great to win,” Rudolph said, “To get Cally (Callahan) his first, a big one, in primetime football, it’s always great to celebrate in the locker room.”
When the Titans signed Rudolph to back up Levis in the offseason, they got exactly what they expected: a seasoned veteran who can step in and lead the team when called upon. In this game, which was a lot closer than the final score indicated, the Titans needed a clean performance to secure their first win, and that is what they got.
With the running game taking over in the second half, Rudolph did not have to play the hero and, in turn, did not make any critical mistake that has doomed the offense during the first three weeks of the season. He pointed this out by giving all the credit to the running backs and offensive line.
“I thought we ran the ball really well. I didn’t do a whole lot,” he continued “we mauled them upfront, moved the ball, controlled the ball in the second half.”
The Titans’ running game complemented their stout defense, and they came out on top. This is a formula that they should be able to build upon moving forward, with or without Rudolph at the helm.
The Titans are entering their bye week and will not return to the field until Week 6, giving Levis time to rest and heal his ailing shoulder. If healthy, he will be the starter. At least for now, the Titans know they can win with Rudolph as quarterback, and he will be ready if needed.
