Cam Ward debut grades: Titans QB can't solve Broncos defense in frustrating first game

Daniel Chavkin

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Cam Ward debut grades: Titans QB can't solve Broncos defense in frustrating first game image

No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward made his NFL debut on Sunday as the Tennessee Titans played the Denver Broncos. While the game was close, the Broncos outlasted the Titans 20-12.

It was a tough draw for Ward, as Denver's defense is one of the best units in the entire league. Not only that, but Ward had to travel to Denver in September, which is when the Broncos have historically dominated their competition.

That played out on the field, as the Titans offense as a whole had issues dealing with Denver's fearsome defense. Despite starting many drives in Broncos territory, Tennessee scored just 12 points overall without reaching the end zone.

Here's a look at how Ward fared in his first official NFL game.

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Cam Ward grades

Grade: C-

Ward ran into a difficult Broncos defense in Week 1, which made for a tough beginning to his NFL career. Denver held Ward without a touchdown on the day, as the Titans offense settled for four field goals for its scoring. 

Things will get easier for Ward moving forward, as there is a chance the Broncos represent the toughest defense he faces throughout the year. For now, though Denver gave Ward a rough "Welcome to the NFL" moment.

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Cam Ward stats

  • Completions/Attempts: 12/28
  • Passing yards: 112
  • Touchdowns: 0
  • Turnovers: 1
  • Sacks: 6
  • Passer rating: 54.5

Ward was inconsistent on the day, completing less than 50 percent of his passes while throwing for just 112 yards total. He also didn't score a touchdown, and he didn't even lead the Titans to a touchdown-scoring drive.

If there was one area that Ward could build off, he didn't turn the ball over until the last play, when he fumbled on fourth down while trying to make something happen.

MORE: Grading NFL Week 1 debuts, from Aaron Rodgers to Geno Smith

Cam Ward highlights

Despite his struggles, Ward did have several nice plays on Sunday that showed why he was the No. 1 pick. He began the game with a nice escape from a muddy pocket, finding running back Tony Pollard as a check-down option.

Ward also connected with Calvin Ridley multiple times in the game, as Ridley represents Ward's top receiving option.

When Ward had time to throw, he showed off the talent that made him the top pick in the draft with Miami last season.

MORE: Will the Dolphins fire Mike McDaniel?

Daniel Chavkin

Daniel Chavkin is a Digital Content Producer for The Sporting News. A 2018 graduate from the University of Maryland, he has previously written for Sports Illustrated, NBC Sports and NFLTradeRumors.com.