Tennessee Titans: Analysis of Starting QB Zach Mettenberger

Multiple sources reported early this week that QB Zach Mettenberger would be starting under center for the Tennessee Titans against the Houston Texans on Sunday. This moves comes after a total debacle at the quarterback position early in the season that included a Jake Locker injury.

Making his first NFL start, here’s a quick look at how Mettenberger breaks down, and what to expect from him on Sunday afternoon.

College success

Mettenberger was a star with the LSU Tigers, putting up incredible stats and leading the team to countless big-game victories. Here were my notes on him before the 2014 NFL Draft, where he was taken in the sixth round:

• I thought Mettenberger deserved a Day Two pick, initially grading him out as a 2nd-3rd round player
• Very good pocket presence and zip on the ball
• Isn’t elite in any one aspect of the game and sometimes struggles to make quick decisions
• I thought he would be best suited in a backup role, somewhere like New England – who eventually took Jimmy Garoppolo

Mettenberger finished his college career with 35 TDs and over 3,600 yards. He would have had more if it weren’t for frequent injury trouble.

Gameplan on Sunday

Like any young quarterback, Mettenberger will need a quiet and manageable load in his first start. Against the Texans, Offensive Coorinator Jason Michael must find a way to help Mettenberger out and keep him confident through the game, no matter the score.

Getting the run game going early will be key. The Texans have an established front, but I have faith in fellow rookie Bishop Sankey. He has NFL-quality skills and a good knowledge of what he needs to do. Expect him to get the ball early and often, even if Shonn Greene does come back from injury.

Look for young WR Justin Hunter to get some looks from Mettenberger as well. He’s due for a breakout performance for the Tennessee Titans.

Prediction

I won’t predict anything too bold considering the game-plan should be pretty vanilla. I do think Mettenberger has a shot to do very well in his NFL career, but he’ll have to show off quick instincts. This game should be a fun one – but I think there’s too much work to do to expect gaudy numbers. Look for line around 15/28/230/1/1.

Best Photo Ever?

Here’s the latest photo of the QB, c/o Titans beat writer Jim Wyatt of the Tennesseean.