Falcons vs. Titans preseason 2015: "Mariota has been great so far," per Music City Miracles

A hearty thank you to Jimmy Morris of Music City Miracles, who answered five of our burning questions ahead of tonight's Atlanta Falcons-Tennessee Titans tilt.

Dave Choate: Marcus Mariota is getting a ton of press for avoiding turnovers in training camp. What are you seeing from him thus far, and what are your expectations for his rookie season?

Jimmy Morris: Mariota has been great so far. They are throwing a lot at him, and he is handling it well so far. The zero interceptions in camp thing has taken on a life of its own. It doesn't really mean anything, but it should also be noted that he isn't getting there by dinking and dunking. There will be some bumps in the road, because he is a rookie quarterback, but the buzz about him is completely different than it was with the last 2 top 10 picks they brought in here- Vince Young and Jake Locker.

Dave Choate: The running back situation is looking a little muddled. Should we expect to see more Bishop Sankey or David Cobb on Friday, and how even will that split be during the season?

Jimmy Morris: You will probably see more of Cobb because Sankey will probably only get a couple of series with the starters. As for during the season, Sankey is going to get the first crack at it. His rookie year was a disappointment, but wasn't all his fault. The offense was bad and the line was injured for most of the season. This regime obviously likes him- they made him the first running back picked in the '14 draft- but it remains to be seen if he can be a feature guy.

Dave Choate: We don't play you guys all that often, so I will freely admit I don't have a great feel for your defense. Who should we be watching for, and how do the Falcons attack it?

Jimmy Morris: This defense was really bad last year. They brought in Dick LeBeau to help sure things up. They also signed Brian Orakpo, Da'Norris Searcy and Perrish Cox to upgrade the personnel. That should make them better, but they still have some major holes they need to fill.

The best way to attack this defense is to have good players and run plays. Seriously, last year it was that easy. It should be better, but I am not sure how much.

Dave Choate: Who is the most underrated Titan nationally?

Jimmy Morris: Jurrell Casey. He is the best player on this team and is a one-man wrecking crew for opposing offenses. Last year he didn't have any help. Hopefully this year he will and that will allow him to get the credit he deserves.

Dave Choate: The moment of truth question: Are the Titans improved in 2015, and what's your prediction for this game?

Jimmy Morris: They will be better. How could they not be? How much better depends a lot on Mariota. I feel pretty good about that at this point.

As for a prediction, I think Mariota and Zach Mettenberger will both play well. Mett is going to get a chance to shine against the Falcons back-ups. For that reason, I will say the Titans win the game 27-24.