Bernard Pollard: Tennessee Titans defense is transforming into pit bulls

Bernard Pollard said the Titans' defense has changed drastically under new defensive coordinator Ray Horton. (Phelan M. Ebenhack/AP) The Tennessee Titans are

Bernard Pollard said the Titans' defense has changed drastically under new defensive coordinator Ray Horton. (Phelan M. Ebenhack/AP)

The Tennessee Titans are hoping that their new coaching staff will help turn the team around, and defensive coordinator Ray Horton has apparently wasted no time making an impact on the team and bringing a new mindset.

Just ask veteran safety Bernard Pollard.

“We were German shepherds in the training phase, but for some reason we transformed to pit bulls, to Rottweilers,” Pollard said via Titans Online. “Preferably, I want to be a lion. There’s no lions over here, but I’ve got the heart.”

What exactly does transforming into a pit bull and/or Rottweiler consist of? Apparently finding that killer instinct.

“We had some great plays, but you look at some games, and we didn’t step on the throat when we were supposed to,” Pollard said. “We didn’t finish it off when we were supposed to. We didn’t get off the field when we were supposed to, so if you look at Coach Horton and the mentality that they’re instilling in players like us, it’s going to be a fun year.”

The Titans will need some improved play on the defensive side of the ball if they want to slow down the Indianapolis Colts and have a shot to bring home the AFC South title, which would give the team their first playoff berth in six years.

That may not happen, but at least Pollard promises the team will be fun.