Titans vs. Saints predictions: Staff picks for Week 16 AFC, NFC clash
By Will Lomas
John Lowell
If there ever was a team to get a big win at home against a gargantuan opponent, it’s the Tennessee Titans. Nissan Stadium is full of magic —for whatever reason —and lately, the Titans have been stellar at home against premier talent outside of the AFC South.
Yet, this one is going to take a Christmas miracle.
When fully healthy, this Titans team can go toe-to-toe with anyone. They’ve proven that time and again against elite talent. But when you’re facing the most accurate quarterback in NFL history in New Orleans Saints QB Drew Brees, a banged-up secondary is more than worrisome — it’s terrifying.
It’s a catch 22, and no, I don’t mean RB Derrick Henry.
If the Titans are unable to pressure Brees, he’ll move surgically down the field. And, with CBs Tye Smith and Leshaun Sims/Tramaine Brock on the perimeter, Titans’ defensive coordinator Dean Pees can’t afford to send CB Logan Ryan after the quarterback. With the current lineup, Ryan is too valuable in coverage.
Tennessee must win this game in the trenches. And, unless the likes of EDGE rusher Harold Landry, DE Jurrell Casey, and DTs Jeffery Simmons and Daquan Jones can turn in a herculean effort, the Titans will fall in this one.
Saints win: Titans 24, Saints 27