Tennessee Titans fans have shown growing enthusiasm for rookie quarterback Cam Ward following his performance in the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Saturday in Florida. As the Titans’ top pick in the 2025 NFL draft, Ward demonstrated promise by leading a touchdown drive and showcasing a strong connection with veteran wide receiver Calvin Ridley.
Key Moments Highlight Ward and Ridley’s Chemistry
Despite a slow start where Ward’s first drive ended quickly with an incomplete pass to Van Jefferson and a hurried throw away under pressure, the rookie bounced back in the second quarter. Ward opened his subsequent drive with a 27-yard pass to Ridley and continued to find the wide receiver on two more short completions. This synchronized effort helped energize fans who are hopeful about the new Calvin Ridley Titans connection.
Ward also faced a brief scare when a pass intended for tight end Chigoziem Okonkwo nearly resulted in an interception, but he recovered and successfully completed a crucial third-down pass to Okonkwo. The drive culminated with running back Tony Pollard crossing the goal line, securing a touchdown for the Titans.
Ward’s Overall Performance and Team Strategy
Ward finished the game completing 5 of 8 passes, with the majority of his 67 passing yards coming from his receptions with Ridley, who totaled 50 yards on three catches. After two drives, Ward was substituted by Brandon Allen, as head coach Brian Callahan indicated that starters would only play briefly during the preseason opener. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay’s quarterback Kyle Trask controlled much of the first quarter, executing a lengthy 80-yard touchdown drive that kept the Titans on the defensive early on.
Looking Ahead to Upcoming Preseason Games
Tennessee Titans supporters are eager to see more of the Ward and Ridley connection as the preseason continues. Fans can expect to watch both players again in action next Friday when the Titans face the Atlanta Falcons, offering another opportunity to evaluate Ward’s development as a potential franchise quarterback and the evolving partnership with Ridley.