While Marcus Mariota hasn’t stood out this preseason (this column was written before Saturday night’s game), Ryan Tannehill threw for 130 yards and two touchdowns in the first exhibition game. And one report from ESPN this past week stated that Mariota is no lock to start in Week 1, with some of the Titans coaches preferring Tannehill, who ran a similar offense in Miami.

The Titans gave Mariota his fifth-year option but not an extension, and then signed Tannehill to give him competition. The story said even if Mariota wins the job, he won't be on a long leash.

Since Ryan Tannehill arrived in Tennessee, Mike Vrabel repeatedly has had to answer questions about Marcus Mariota‘s hold on the starting job. The Titans coach has never wavered.

But the questions aren’t going away.

Vrabel again had to address the topic this week during a conference call for the American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament. He again gave Mariota a vote of confidence.

Vrabel went on to say Tannehill's job as the backup is to "push the guy in front of him." Of course, Mariota has to stay healthy for this to hold true. He's getting paid $20.9 million this season as the team picked up his fifth-year option and it's certainly a make-or-break year for the QB.

Marcus Mariota said there is no surgical procedure that needs to be done.

Mariota is dealing with a nerve issue but the rest of the tweet went on to say he just has to get healthy and rest.

Titans inactives
QB Marcus Mariota
LB Brian Orakpo
CB Kenneth Durden
RB Jeremy McNichols
LB LaTroy Lewis
G Aaron Stinnie
T Tyler Marz

Blaine Gabbert gets the surprise start in this must-win game for the playoffs.

Marcus Mariota (stinger) has been listed as questionable for Week 17.

There is virtually no chance Mariota sits in a must-win game for Tennessee. He isn't startable in pretty much any format, but his presence should help out Corey Davis.

Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (hand) practiced Thursday with no obvious limitations but did not take a full complement of snaps. Coach Mike Vrabel said he can now move on to the next phase of their plan.

Mariota isn't somebody you want to use this week, but his presence would be a boost for Corey Davis and Derrick Henry.

Vrabel said Marcus Mariota is dealing with stinger.

The Titans are hoping Mariota can do some work today, and during the week. A playoff berth is on the line vs. the Colts, so Mariota will try to get on the field for Week 17 for the Sunday night game.