Titans vs Patriots: Wild Card game staff picks and predictions
By Will Lomas
Mike Moraitis
There’s just something about this game that feels special to me, and perhaps that has to do with the multiple ironies that are taking place just days ahead of it.
Not only is there a chance for head coach Mike Vrabel to end the dynasty he helped start with this possibly being Tom Brady’s last game in New England, but a winter storm that is going to roll into the area through Saturday night is named “Henry.”
Adding to that, it’s Derrick Henry‘s 26th birthday.
Of course, none of this helps the Titans on the field — well, maybe the storm will help slow down a Pats offense that is already struggling — but those ironies are just too much to ignore and there’s no denying that this is an opponent that Tennessee matches up well with.
Tennessee’s defense hasn’t fared well against opposing passing attacks of late, but those passing attacks were elite and the Titans didn’t have the services of Adoree’ Jackson, who is set to return this week. Not to mention, the Pats’ offensive line is exploitable, so look for the Titans to get a consistent pass-rush.
Jackson’s return, combined with a less-than stellar Patriots passing attack that lacks weapons, will lead to Brady and Co. being kept in check, and it has already been proven that New England isn’t good at running the football, either.
The King will once again claim his throne as an elite game-breaking back, which will setup Ryan Tannehill for another one of his insanely efficient games. Unfortunately for A.J. Brown, the Pats will key in on stopping him, but that will open the door for Corey Davis to have the kind of big game we’ve all been waiting for after a mostly disappointing season.
The Titans will pull off an upset and walk out of Foxborough winners, while officially putting themselves on the map as a serious contender both now, and in the future.
Final score prediction: Titans 24, Patriots 20