Tennessee Titans rookie quarterback Cam Ward achieved his first NFL win on Sunday with a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback against the Arizona Cardinals. The Titans were down 21-6 but rallied to win 22-21, breaking a ten-game losing streak.
Ward’s Impressive Comeback
Ward recorded 193 passing yards in the fourth quarter and completed 13 of 18 passes. This surpasses his total passing yards in the fourth quarters of his previous four games combined. “I wish I would’ve started better personally, but at the end of the day it don’t matter how you start. It’s how you finish,” said Ward.
After a rough first half where he completed only 5 of 16 passes, Ward significantly improved in the second half. He highlighted his performance with a 47-yard throw to Calvin Ridley and a perfect 19-yard pass to Gunnar Helm on the goal line.
Key Moments in the Game
The Titans needed a stroke of luck to help with their comeback. A pass to Ridley was tipped and intercepted; however, Titans receiver Tyler Lockett recovered the fumbled interception in the end zone, narrowing the score to 21-19.
Following a defensive stop against Arizona, Ward took the field down by two points with just under two minutes left. He completed three out of four passes, including a crucial 38-yard completion to Ridley that set up Joey Slye’s 29-yard game-winning field goal.
Coaches and Teammates Praise Ward
Coach Brian Callahan noted Ward’s ability to execute plays under pressure. “Cam made big plays when we needed him to,” said Callahan. Defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons praised Ward’s calm demeanor, stating, “I don’t know how many rookie quarterbacks could have that type of poise.”
Ward finished the game with a career-high 265 passing yards and demonstrated growth throughout the match, marking a significant moment in his NFL career.