Vrabel admits he was 'scared to death' coaching against Mariota

Ahead of Mike Vrabel's introductory press conference as Tennessee Titans head coach on Monday, it's safe to say the former Houston Texans defensive coordinator was relieved to be on the same side as Marcus Mariota.

Vrabel is no stranger to Mariota's talents, as the Texans and Titans meet twice per season in AFC South play, and he admitted it was difficult to scheme a defense to stop the 24-year-old quarterback.

"We were scared to death," Vrabel said, according to Kevin Patra of NFL.com. "He pulled a football on Jadeveon Clowney and ran 40 yards. Thank god he pulled his hamstring running 40 yards or that game wouldn't have been what it was that day in Houston. He's a special talent, a special kid, and I can't wait to work with him and help him in the next stage of his career."

Vrabel has yet to name an offensive coordinator to work with the quarterback, but taking advantage of his dual-threat abilities will certainly be a point of focus for the new coaching staff.

Mariota is coming off his worst season as a professional, as the former Oregon star threw 13 touchdowns and 15 interceptions for a passer rating of 79.3.