After starting 0-5, the Tennessee Titans got their first victory of the 2026 season on Sunday, October 18, rallying to beat the Colts 26-20 at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Down 13-0, then up
The Titans were shut out in the first half and trailed by 13 at the break. They outscored Indianapolis 19-7 in the second half. Kicker Joey Slye made field goals from 29, 44, 49, and 56 yards, and a blocked punt in the fourth quarter was returned for a touchdown. Quarterback Cam Ward and rookie receiver Carnell Tate also connected on an eight-yard touchdown pass.
A quiet day for the offense, a big one for the defense
Ward completed 11 of 22 passes for 102 yards, with a touchdown and an interception, in his lowest-output game of the season. The defense took over, forcing two takeaways. Safety Amani Hooker had a career-high 13 tackles and an interception.
Milestones
It was Robert Saleh’s first win as Titans head coach, and the franchise’s 500th all-time win, counting regular season and postseason. The win also evened the team’s divisional record at 1-1. The Titans are now 1-5.
Pressure on the staff
Before the win, Titans CEO reaffirmed faith in Saleh despite the winless start. Analysts have noted that the Titans’ defense has kept games close all season, while the offense has ranked at or near the bottom of the NFL in total yards.
What’s next
Tennessee returns to Nissan Stadium on Sunday, October 25, at noon CT to host the Cleveland Browns. This is the team’s final season in the current stadium, with a new domed Nissan Stadium scheduled for 2027.
Why it matters
A first win can change the mood in the locker room and in the stands. The Titans won only six games combined over the last two seasons, so progress is measured in small steps.
