Halftime Update: Baltimore 17, Titans 14

The Tennessee Titans (9-2, 7-0 AFC Central) quickly discovered how difficult it would be to reach the 10-win plateau on Sunday afternoon at Baltimore.

The fired-up Ravens (4-7) looked to spoil the Titans perfect division mark by taking a 17-14 first half lead. Tennessee’s offense, however, settled down to score 11 points in the second quarter.

The Titans got on the board first after a short pass from quarterback Steve McNair to tight end Frank Wycheck went for big gain. The completion set up a 39-yard Al Del Greco field goal.

Baltimore answered with two big plays that had Titans head coach Jeff Fisher slightly concerned. In the first period, quarterback Tony Banks completed a 76-yard bomb to receiver Patrick Johnson for a touchdown. Banks again took advantage of Tennessee’s non-existent pass rush and tossed a short touchdown pass to wideout Jermaine Lewis.

The Titans stated to move the ball as the half progressed. McNair’s play-action calls and 28 rushing yards led Tennessee 76 yards downfield for its first touchdown of the afternoon. Running back Eddie George capped off the drive with a 3-yard score.

Baltimore wasn’t finished, though, as running back Priest Holmes broke a 73-yard run, which set up a 21-yard field goal by Matt Stover. Del Greco added another three-pointer for Tennessee with only :08 remaining.

The Titans lack of a deep threat may cause some problems in the second half as Baltimore’s league-best defense has little trouble keeping the ground game in check. It is clear that this game will be left in the hands of both defenses.