TITANS INSIDER

Jake Locker much sharper in second preseason start

Jim Wyatt
jwyatt@tennessean.com
Titans head coach Ken Whisenhunt and quarterback Jake Locker watch a replay during the first half against the Saints on Friday.

NEW ORLEANS – There was nothing much to see from Titans quarterback Jake Locker last week in the preseason opener.

The nasty weather conditions at LP Field prevented him from doing much. He only threw two passes.

The fourth-year pro's play against the New Orleans Saints here on Friday was a positive development, however. He led a seven-play, 62-yard drive on his first series, finding wide receiver Justin Hunter for a 4-yard touchdown.

Locker left the game in the second quarter. On two possessions he finished 8-of-11 passing for 75 yards, the touchdown and a passer rating of 121.5.

"It was great to see the way we came out and started the game," Locker said. "We had two long drives and overcame tough down distances. Overall, it was something we can definitely build on."

Locker's longest completion was 20 yards to tight end Taylor Thompson. He completed seven of his first eight passes and guided the Titans to a field goal on their second possession.

Then the reserves took over and the game got sloppy.

"It's no secret we turned the ball over tonight and we've got to clean that up," Locker said. "We've got to do a better job offensively taking care of the football."