NFL Training Camp: Tennessee Titans Name Marcus Mariota Starting Quarterback

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The Tennessee Titans opened Training Camp on Friday and former Oregon Ducks Quarterback Marcus Mariota looked like he did not miss a step from his mini and rookie camp performances from earlier this month. Mariota was nine for thirteen on his passes, with several appearing to be thrown too hard for receivers to grab, according to ESPN.

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Soon after being drafted it appeared that Mariota would be battling it out with Zach Mettenberger for the starting role, but on Thursday that idea was put to rest by Head Coach Ken Whisenhunt. The former Oregon Ducks Quarterback was named the starter for the Tennessee Titans.

The Tennessean said that the Head Coach left no question

to answer when it came to who was ths Starter for the team.

"You Mean After Marcus?Tennessee Head Coach Ken Whisenhunt On The ‘Quarterback Pecking Order’ ,per the Tennessean"

Timothy Rapp from Bleacher Report offers his take on Marcus Mariota being named the Starter and throws around names like Jake Locker and Steve McNair. He goes on to say the former Oregon Duck is more athletic than both, which is a huge compliment and one that many Oregon fans have known for quite a while. Now, he has to translate his talent and ability to the level of the National Football League, which will come with time.

In being named the Starter it appears as though the pressure of the position is not getting to Marcus Mariota. Following his first day of Training Camp, he teammates again raved about his performance. Tight End Delanie Walker spoke with ESPN, “He called the huddle with poise, said the plays like he knew them, ran the offense very well. That’s exciting to see when you’ve got a young quarterback coming in and ready to go.”

Marcus Mariota and Tennessee begin the 2015 Preseason visiting Atlanta on August 14th at 4pm Pacific Time. The regular season begins with the Titans travelling to Tampa Bay on September 13th for a 1:25pm Pacific Time kickoff.

Next: Ducks In The NFL: Ifo Ekpre-Olomu Out For 2015