Titans Beat Vikings 23-13 to End Preseason: Cam Ward Shows Promise

Game Overview: Titans Take Preseason Finale

The Tennessee Titans wrapped up their 2025 preseason with a solid 23-13 victory over the Minnesota Vikings at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. This win gives the Titans a 2-1 preseason record and provides momentum heading into the regular season opener against the Denver Broncos on September 7.

Rookie quarterback Cam Ward, the Titans’ No. 1 overall draft pick, led the team for just over a quarter and showed encouraging signs of growth, orchestrating a long touchdown drive, although his first NFL touchdown pass remains elusive.

Cam Ward’s Performance: Building Toward the Regular Season

Ward completed 3 of 4 passes for 36 yards in his second series, expertly directing a 13-play, 90-yard drive that ended with a one-yard touchdown run by Julius Chestnut for the team’s first score of the night. Ward played conservatively, as Titans coach Brian Callahan limited his snaps to protect the rookie from unnecessary hits during the preseason.

Ward finished the preseason with a total of 10 completions on 19 attempts for 145 yards. His poise and decision-making continue to impress, setting expectations high for his regular season debut.

Key Contributors and Highlights

• Julius Chestnut capped the opening scoring drive with a 1-yard touchdown run.

• Brandon Allen, a veteran backup QB, extended the lead with a touchdown pass to Van Jefferson, who caught a 65-yard touchdown reception and finished with 102 receiving yards.

• Joey Slye, the Titans' kicker, showcased his powerful leg by making a 63-yard field goal, a distance rare in NFL games and close to the franchise record.

• Minnesota’s rookie quarterback Max Brosmer threw for 161 yards and a touchdown, but the Vikings couldn’t overcome the Titans’ steady offense and strong field goals.

Game Flow by Quarters

Quarter	Vikings Points	Titans Points
1	3	0
2	0	14
3	7	3
4	3	6
Final	13	23

Notable Moments

• Late in the game, a neon green sex toy was humorously tossed on the field and swiftly removed by security.

• Minnesota kicker Will Reichard missed multiple long field goal attempts but made a late 58-yarder to narrow the gap.

• Titans sat several starters, including star wide receiver Calvin Ridley and running back Tony Pollard, aiming to keep them fresh for the regular season.

What’s Next?

The Titans will open their 2025 regular season schedule at Denver on September 7, while the Vikings travel to Chicago to begin their campaign on September 8. Cam Ward’s official NFL debut is highly anticipated, with fans eager to see his full potential in the regular season.

Cam Ward’s first NFL touchdown pass will have to wait, but his ability to lead a lengthy touchdown drive as a rookie shows promise for the future of the Titans’ offense. The team’s balanced attack and strong special teams performance set a positive tone heading into the new season.