Tampa Bay -- Marcus Mariota shined with 4 touchdowns and no picks as the Titans downed the Buccaneers in Week 1.

Marcus Mariota is a rookie? Who would have guessed it after Mariota's 4 touchdowns helped break a 10-game losing streak for the Titans. For a minute it looked as though Mariota was playing college-ball again. He was lights out with accuracy, moving the ball, and using his weapons like Kendall Wright to his advantage. Mariota completed 13/16 with 209 yards.

"Starting fast, setting the tempo, going out there and having success early, just gave confidence to everybody and really helped us all the way through the game," Mariota said.

Mariota had a QBR of 95.7 and a passer rating of 158.3. "It means we're 1-0. For me, it's taking it one day at a time and just executing to the best of my abilities," Mariota said. "It's a good start for us, but it's just the first game. We've got to continue to get better and not focus on stats." Bishop Sankey carried 12 times for 74 yards and a touchdown.

Jameis Winston completed 16 of 33 passes for 210 yards with 2 touchdowns and 2 picks. He definitely did not play up to standard compared to Mariota today, and his first throw was a pick-6. Was it because of Mike Evans not playing? Who knows, but Jameis definitely didn't show as much as he could have as a quarterback. Austin Seferian-Jenkins was Winston's favorite target who caught 5 balls for 110 yards and 2 touchdowns. Doug Martin carried 11 times for 52 yards.

"Their quarterback played better than ours today. Their football team played better today. Their coach did a better job coaching their football team than I did today," Smith said, adding "but it's one game" and not a reflection on how good Winston will become as a pro.

"We have the guy," Smith said, "that's perfect for our football team."

They may have their guy but no doubt he needs improvement. This writer is eating his words because prior to the draft yours truly thought Mariota would struggle in the NFL. As of right now Mariota looks better than anyone. The Bucs were likely missing Mike Evans a lot as he is technically their number 1 or 1a receiver alongside Vincent Jackson. The Bucs got behind early and couldn't establish a run-game for Martin to find room. Are we seeing a repeat of a semi-hyped Tampa Bay team that doesn't follow through with their expectations? 

The Titans continue on the road next week against the Browns, while the Bucs will head to New Orleans to face off against Drew Brees and the Saints.

Mitchell Evans is an editor who covers the NFL. Follow him on Twitter @MitchellAEvans.