Titans (9-7) at Patriots (12-4)
Saturday, 8:15 p.m. ET, Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts
TV: CBS
Danny Sheridan’s line: Patriots by 41⁄2
Titans’ keys to victory: The Miami Dolphins reminded the Titans in Week 17 that Patriots CB Stephon Gilmore can be beaten – he had a very rough outing. If the Titans are to win, they’ll need QB Ryan Tannehill to attack Gilmore, who looked like the NFL’s best cornerback until that game. RB Derrick Henry should find success between the tackles against the Patriots’ spotty run defense. The Titans would do well to make sure they set up LB Harold Landry to generate pressure – he’s had a few quiet weeks despite finishing the season with nine sacks.
Patriots’ keys to victory: The Patriots need to feed WR Julian Edelman and RB James White in the passing game. They’ve gone away from the two skill players in recent weeks, whether to try to get others involved or to save the health of the trusty tandem. Once they’re involved, the Patriots can establish a balanced offense with RB Sony Michel and the ground game. The defense needs to generate takeaways – the Patriots have needed big plays from the special teams and defense in order to win.
Matchup to watch: Titans CB Logan Ryan vs. Patriots WR Julian Edelman. Edelman had 90 receptions in the first 13 games but just 10 the last three weeks. He’s fighting through injuries, and New England’s offense is struggling without his contributions.
Who wins? Strong defensive play should keep this game close, but the Patriots aren’t likely to stumble again after they were embarrassed at home by the Miami Dolphins in Week 17.
Patriots, 24-21