The Tennessee Titans travel to Houston to take on the Texans in this AFC South matchup with Tennessee’s playoff hopes on the line.
The Titans enter off a loss to the Saints on Sunday in a game that had no real bearing on their playoff chances. The Texans come in after locking up the AFC South with their victory over the Buccaneers.
Keys to game
Titans
- Pressure the QB
The front seven needs to get to Deshaun Watson. Just two weeks ago, the Titans did a pretty good job at this but need to execute that game-changing play.
- Double Hopkins, but remember the rest
In the Dec. 15 matchup, the Titans did a good job limiting Deandre Hopkins. One problem, though: the other receivers, especially Kenny Stills, made them pay.
- Henry, Henry, Henry
Derrick Henry was inactive last week to rest his injured hamstring. The running backs by committee on Sunday against the Saints had success, but they didn’t scare New Orleans’ defense.
- Don’t come out flat
With a loss, they’ll have to scoreboard watch and pray. An easier option would be to simply come out quick and energized. They need to take chances, whether it’s a trick play or going for it on a few fourth downs.
Texans
- Slow down Henry
In the game two weeks ago, Henry lacked burst due to his hamstring. That helped the Texans’ defense bring him down with little to no resistance. A healthy Henry is a different story.
- Secure the ball
With the division already locked up, it’s doubtful the starters will play much, although playing spoiler is an enticing idea. Ball security should be the top focus for the Texans.
- Let it go
Everything is riding on this game for the Titans, and Texans head coach Bill O’Brien says he’ll still play to win the game. If his team falls behind, he may change that philosophy.
Game Info
Date: Dec. 29, 2019
Start time: 4:25 p.m. EST
Location: Houston, Tex.
Stadium: NRG Stadium
TV Info: CBS
Betting Odds
Point Spread: Titans -3.5
Over/Under: 48.5
The Titans are favored on the road by 3.5 points.
Prediction
Ryan Tannehill, who has never been to the playoffs in his career, will have another terrific game with a pair of touchdown passes. I also expect Derrick Henry to be back to his normal self. He’ll break the 100-yard mark and score a pair of touchdowns.
The Titans’ defense will play at a higher level than normal. I expect them to come away with two or three takeaways.
The Texans will fall behind early. The Titans will open up a two-score lead and never look back. At that point, O’Brien will begin to pull his remaining starters, something many think he should do regardless to prevent any unnecessary injuries that could impact their upcoming playoff run.
The Titans, once the early-season laughing stock of the AFC South, will clinch a playoff spot with the victory.
Final Score: Titans 34, Texans 17
