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What does history tell us about Ray Horton's defenses?

Throughout the preseason the defensive play has been far less than spectacular. When the Titans played the Packers it was easy to blame struggles on the weather but the mistakes continued in the following weeks. While the lack of simple fundamental tackling is definitely inexcusable there may be other reasons as to why the defense hasn't hit it's stride yet. That led me to do a little research on our new defensive coordinator Ray Horton.

2011-2012: Defensive Coordinator Arizona Cardinals

In 2010 the Cardinals finished 5-11 and needed help on the defensive side of the ball. They ranked 22 in turnover differential. When Ray Horton was brought in, the team was already used to a 3-4 base defense unlike the situation in Tennessee. Looking at the 2011 preseason,his defense gave up 18, 28, 34, and 7 points respectively. In 2012 they gave up 27, 27, 32, and 16 points in the four preseason games. These numbers certainly are not impressive, but when the regular season rolled around, Horton got the most out of his players. He got the defenses to finish at just about league average despite having a below average group of players.

2013: Defensive Coordinator Cleveland Browns

Just like the Titans, the Browns were getting a new defensive scheme with the switch to the 3-4 and arrival of Ray Horton. In 2012 the defense was rated 30th out of the 32 teams. So let's look at Horton's defense's numbers in the preseason again. They allowed 19, 6, 17, 16 points in the preseason. But once again when the regular season rolled around, Horton got the most out of his group of players. He was right around league average once again.

2014: Defensive Coordinator Tennessee Titans

So this year Horton came to the Titans and now has arguably the most talent he's ever worked with as defensive coordinator. So far in the preseason they have given up 16, 31, and 17 points respectively. While it is easy to be disappointed in these numbers, history shows that this is to be expected from Horton's defenses in the preseason. When the regular season comes, he knows how to motivate his players and get the most out of them. The main point is not to overreact and look into the preseason numbers that much. Horton is a veteran coach that will bring a whole other level of schemes and blitzes come the regular season. The only disappointment here is the number of missed tackles. But with the veteran coaching staff and a young, talented roster, it is way too early to write these guys off because of disappointing defensive preseason play.