The Titans come in at 6-5 after blowing out the Jaguars last week. The Colts also come in at 6-5 following a loss to the division-leading Texans. Both teams are looking to keep pace with the Texans and potentially a share of first place with a Houston loss.
This is the second meeting of the season between these two teams. The first one went to the Colts, 19-17. That matchup was a typical defensive divisional matchup until Marlon Mack and Jacoby Brissett led their team to a late score.
With both teams all in the hunt for not only a playoff spot but the AFC South crown, this is a must-win for these division rivals.
Keys to game
Tennessee Titans
- Heavy workload for Henry
The play-calling has to go through Derrick Henry early and often. I expect about 20 carries or so for the workhorse.
- Keep Brissett in the pocket
The Titans’ defense can’t let Jacoby Brissett use his mobility, and his ability to throw on the move.
- Watch Hilton
T.Y. Hilton has a history of being a nightmare for Titans defenders. The secondary needs to limit his production.
Indianapolis Colts
- Make Tannehill uncomfortable
Since taking over the starting job, Ryan Tannehill has been able to pick teams apart. The Colts’ defense needs to get in his face and keep him contained.
- Establish a running game
Marlon Mack had success running the ball against the Titans in Week 2. With Mack injured, someone else needs to find success on the ground
- The run defense must come to play
Derrick Henry comes in off of back-to-back dominant running performances against the Chiefs and Jaguars. For Indianapolis to have any shot in this game, they need to slow Henry down.
Game Info
Date: Dec. 1, 2019
Start: 1:00 p.m. EST
Location: Indianapolis, Ind.
Stadium: Lucas Oil Stadium
TV: CBS
Betting Odds
Point Spread: Colts -2.5
Over/Under: 43.5
The Colts are favored at home against the visiting Titans by 2.5 points.
Prediction
Derrick Henry will run wild throughout this game. He will eclipse the 150-yard mark, finding the end zone twice. He will break the 1,000-yard mark on the season, and he will creep even closer to the league lead in rushing yards.
The defense will torment Brissett all afternoon. Harold Landry will get a pair of sacks, giving him 10 for the season. While Hilton will have some success against the Titans’ secondary, I can see the Titans coming away with a takeaway or two in this game.
Ryan Tannehill will continue to impress with his command of the offense. A.J. Brown will have a big game with over 100 yards receiving and a pair of touchdowns.
The Titans will continue their postseason push with another lopsided win, and a divisional win at that.
Final Score: Titans 35, Colts 14
