Gigantic.
That’s just one of many words you could use to describe the meaning of this Sunday’s Colts-Titans clash. There are way too many different paths for both teams that could be affected regarding the outcome of this game.
The winner of this game will move to 7-5, they’ll be able to lock their eyes on one of the last WildCard spots, and potentially be tied for first in the AFC South with a Houston Texans loss on Sunday night.
The loser will be left to scramble for their playoff hopes, ultimately be put in a difficult spot to win a division title, and will be needing 500 forms of breathing exercises to soothe the upcoming stress they’ll be faced with.
I’m not overreacting, this game is absolutely massive.
Before I can think of any more stupid stress relieving type punts, let’s get right to previewing this AFC South matchup between the Tennessee Titans and the Indianapolis Colts.
1. Ryan Tannehill & Derrick Henry to Lead The Offense Once Again
To say Ryan Tannehill has found some sort of career reboot is an understatement. Tannehill is playing some of, if not arguably, the best football of his 7 year playing career.
I’ve run out of positive things to say, as I’m sure I’ve squeezed every last compliment I can give out to Tannehill. The only thing to question now, is what would be the Titans’ current situation if they had moved to Tannehill earlier on in the year?
It’s fun to play the what if game, but for now, the only thing we can focus on is the game this Sunday. Tannehill won’t have it as easy against the Colts, who come in allowing only 231 YPG through the air at home.
Regardless of who’s been at QB this year, Derrick Henry has found success on the ground. He’s 9 yards away from his 2nd straight 1,000 yard season and is seemingly the spark that starts the fire for the Titans’ offense.
This offense runs through Henry, and it’s performance during the game most likely reflects on the success Henry is having so far.
Henry will run into a Colts defense that is top 10 in the league. They only give up 97 YPG on the ground and have only given up 66 YPG in their last 3 games.
All in all, it’ll be a good test for the 2 main players behind the resurgence of the Tennessee Titans’ offense.
2. TY Hilton, Marlon Mack, Eric Ebron’s Absences Could Spell Trouble For The Colts
The Colts offense has struggled the last couple of games, including a a 17 point stinker against the Texans last Thursday night. Now, heading into an important game against the Titans, the Colts will be without 2 of their best offensive playmakers.
TY Hilton, who has given the Titans plenty fits in past meetings, was ruled out of the game during the week with a calf injury.
Marlon Mack has been ruled out of this game for some time, due to a fractured hand.
Eric Ebron went on IR earlier this week.
With those 2 out, the Colts’ skill groups don’t look as scary.
Zach Pascal continues to get snaps, but he’s done nothing with the extra PT.
Parris Campbell, the speedy rookie out of Ohio State, is questionable for the game with a hand injury. Although, Colts HC Frank Reich didn’t sound too optimistic about Campbell’s chances of suiting up.
This game should present the opportunity for a usual physical Titans defense, to find their footing again and turn up their play as the playoff hunt continues.
