Taylor Lewan is Playing Well, Thanks to Mike Mularkey

In a fascinating article by the Tennessean's John Glennon, Taylor Lewan dished on some changes that Mike Mularkey made when he took over for Ken Whisenhunt.

Lewan told Glennon, "A lot had been asked (previously) about me being verbal, talking a lot, almost being a cheerleader," Lewan said. "(Mularkey) said I don’t have to do that anymore and I honestly said, `Thank you.’ I don’t have to do that anymore. So now I can play football."

He went on to say, "I’m here to play left tackle. The left tackle is not the face of a franchise, nor should he be. I think there are a lot of guys that will get across what we’re trying to accomplish week by week. I don’t need to be that guy."

These refreshing and candid comments were an eye opener for me.  It's just more evidence of Ken Whisenhunt trying to fit a square peg into a round hole.  Surprisingly enough, it looks like Lewan's theory makes some sense.  We couldn't figure out why the second year man was slumping to start the season, leading to speculation of an injury.

Post Whisenhunt, Lewan has been lights out.  Zero sacks surrendered. Zero penalties. It's amazing how athletes can respond to a different coaching approach.  Lewan's reemergence is an excellent sign going forward and a sigh of relief for Ruston Webster.

There are still plenty of holes along the offensive line, but Lewan getting back to being himself has at least eased some of the pressure on Marcus Mariota.  The Titans must figure out a solution on the other side of the line at right tackle, as well as solidifying the interior.  The idea of drafting a tackle in the top three picks remains a possibility, but if Lewan continues to play at a high level Joey Bosa or Jalen Ramsey might just become a real possibility.