Titans Defense Won The Day Tuesday, The Offense Gets Their Chance At Redemption On Wednesday

It's a point of pride for the offense and defense to chirp about winning the day in a team practice. The Tennessee Titans defense got the honors on Tuesday, but the offense will have their chance to turn the tables on Wednesday.

Andrew Nelles / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK

NASHVILLE - It's common practice for the offense or defense of every team to brag about getting the better of the other side following a team practice, so it wasn't a surprise that the Tennessee Titans defense took some honors following Tuesday's mandatory minicamp practice after getting the better of their offensive mates. 

The return of Kevin Byrad seemed to give the defensive side a boost of energy, as Byard immediately stepped into his position at safety and began making plays as if he had been practicing with this group for weeks.

Linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair was asked about his side winning the day on Tuesday, when he spoke with the media after the practice. 

"I'm gonna always agree with that," said Al-Shaair with a big smile. "They might torch us a couple of times, but I'll still get off the field and say it."

"I would agree. I think it's good, competitive energy, which is what you want," continued Al-Shaair. "I was talking to the guys in the locker room after we got done, and at the end of the day, every single day you come in here, and you're competing, and you're sharpening each other, like tools. Iron sharpens iron, so that's how we're going to be a winning team."          

It's no surprise that the defense is ahead of the offense at this point, especially considering the defense was the strength of this team last season. 

It's also unsurprising, considering the change in offensive coordinators and philosophy from Todd Downing to Tim Kelly and the offense learning the new playbook, terminology, and play calls.

However, it would be good if the offense could bounce back and take one of the two remaining practice sessions this week. 

At the same time, I wouldn't count on that happening, as this defense seemed dialed in and playing well on Tuesday. I'd expect that trend to continue the rest of this week and into training camp.

Titans Related Stories

• BYARD'S RETURN BRINGS BOOST TO TEAM DURING TUESDAY'S MANDATORY MINICAMP: Kevin Byrad stepped onto the practice field with the Titans for the first time this season on Tuesday, and there was an immediate boost to the defense. CLICK HERE
• VRABEL'S THOUGHTS ON WHERE HIS TEAM IS AT THIS POINT IN MINICAMP: Mike Vrabel shared some thoughts on where his team is on Tuesday during his post-practice press conference. CLICK HERE
• THREE PLAYERS I'M LOOKING TO SEE IMPROVE DURING MINICAMP: Here are three players who I'm looking to see improvement in during this week's Titans mandatory minicamp. CLICK HERE