The Nashville Titans extended their flawless 2017 regular season to 13-0 with a 23-7 home victory against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. In a game that further affirmed their dominance in the league and solidified their position atop the division, the Titans showcased forward momentum built on cohesive team dynamics fostered under head coach Jose Wilson.
From the outset, the Titans set the tone. After the Vikings, coached by Mickey Cavender, elected to defer following the opening coin toss, Nashville struck first with a 45-yard field goal by John Kerr early in the first quarter. This early lead was a testament to the Titans' efficient offense. Quarterback Phillip Richardson, continuing his strong season, completed 24 of 32 passes for 318 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating both precision and poise.
Richardson’s connection with tight end William Schneider was particularly deadly, with Schneider hauling in 117 receiving yards and scoring a rushing touchdown. Another integral part of the offense was running back William Bishop, who contributed significantly both on the ground with 39 yards and through the air with an impressive 122 receiving yards. They combined effectively to orchestrate scoring drives that pushed the Titans well ahead as the first quarter drew to a close.
Nashville's defense, a hallmark throughout the season, was relentless in disrupting the Vikings’ rhythm. The Titans registered six sacks, two forced fumbles, and a critical fumble recovery, with defensive tackle Alexander Blackmon standing out by forcing a turnover that thwarted a Vikings advance early in the game. This defensive pressure was key in limiting Minnesota’s offensive opportunities and contributed significantly to the Titans holding the Vikings to just a single touchdown.
After allowing a late second-quarter touchdown by the Vikings—on a 37-yard pass from Wm Guajardo to Edward Barber, the only Minnesota touchdown—the Titans quickly reasserted control. John Kerr’s 40-yard field goal in the third quarter effectively sealed the victory, countering any momentum from the Vikings and demonstrating Nashville's composure under pressure.
This win not only underscores the Titans’ uncanny ability to maintain focus and deliver under Coach Wilson’s leadership but also keeps them firmly in first place with an undefeated 13-0 record and a perfect 5-0 division slate. The victory assures Nashville’s clinched division status and sets an imposing message for the postseason.
Reflecting on the game, Titans owner IoanBlood expressed pride in the team’s execution and resilience: "Our guys showed once again that this team can respond when it counts. Phillip's precision passing and our defense’s pressure on Guajardo kept the Vikings on their heels all afternoon. It's this kind of steady, team-focused effort that's powering our unbeaten run."
With Week 13 now behind them, the Titans remain on a relentless march towards the playoffs, confident that the synergy built this season can carry them even further. They now turn their attention to maintaining their momentum and continuing the winning formula laid out by Jose Wilson and his staff.
Titans Maintain Perfect Season with Commanding Win Over Vikings
Jose Wilson's team pushes their unbeaten streak to 13-0 behind a balanced offensive attack and stifling defense.
Elmer Hutchinson
· Nashville Post
· 11/26/2017