Banged-up Titans remember lopsided loss to Vikings

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Good games were in short supply for the Minnesota Vikings last year, but one of their best efforts was a drubbing of the Tennessee Titans -- a team that endured an equally disappointing 2001.

It's still the preseason, when maintaining good health is the only thing that truly matters, but the Titans would like to make up for their 42-24 defeat at the Metrodome last December. The two teams meet in the same place Friday night in their second-to-last exhibition game.

"That was a very disappointing game. We ended up getting thumped pretty good," said Tennessee tight end Frank Wycheck. "I think it'll be in the back of our minds how they ran the score up on us."

Wycheck won't recognize too many faces on the other side of the ball.

The Vikings (1-1) have revamped their defense. On Friday, they'll take a harder look at several rookies who climbed the depth chart during training camp, including cornerback Brian Williams, free safety Jack Brewer and linebacker Nick Rogers.

"I think there are a lot of positions right now that are still up in the air," said coach Mike Tice. "These next two games will play a big part in what our decisions will be. We're looking for improvement every day, in every game, and we're looking for consistency. If you can't count on a guy, you certainly don't want him on the field."

After a shaky start to the preseason with a 27-15 loss to Cleveland at home, the Vikings were far better last week in a 24-21 win over Buffalo.

"We're coming along very well," said running back Michael Bennett. "It was a pretty good day for us out in Buffalo. It gives us some momentum to build off."

The Titans (2-0) are trying to take things a little slower. Coach Jeff Fisher, trying to avoid another 0-3 start to the regular season, scaled back training camp a bit to make sure his team will be sharp for September.

Tennessee is banged up, but Fisher didn't plan on playing his starters more than a quarter anyway.

Rookie safety Tank Williams, defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth and defensive end Jevon Kearse are out with injuries, and it doesn't look like cornerback Samari Rolle, quarterback Steve McNair or running back Eddie George will play at all.

"How smart is it putting Eddie on the AstroTurf?" Fisher said.

McNair, bothered by tightness in his back, didn't practice this week and was given an injection to ease some swelling.