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2017 NFL power rankings: Patriots lead the way

By Russell S. Baxter

Feb 2, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; A general overall view of NRG Stadium with graphics featuring New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) and Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) prior to Super Bowl LI. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 2, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; A general overall view of NRG Stadium with graphics featuring New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) and Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) prior to Super Bowl LI. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 13, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) is sacked by Tennessee Titans linebacker Brian Orakpo (98) during the second half at Nissan Stadium. The Titans won 47-25. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 13, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) is sacked by Tennessee Titans linebacker Brian Orakpo (98) during the second half at Nissan Stadium. The Titans won 47-25. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports /
11

Tennessee Titans 9-7

Last week: 2nd, AFC South
Last rank: 11th

Looking Back: You simply have to be impressed from what you saw from this young team. After managing a combined 5-27 record the previous two season entering 2016, Mike Mularkey guided the Titans to a 9-7 finish. The defense had some ups and downs but was a much-improved unit. And thanks to quarterback Marcus Mariota and running back DeMarco Murray, the Tennessee offense grew as the year wore on.

Looking Forward: This is a very promising team more than capable of winning a division title in 2017. The team has put together a formidable offensive line and only the Buffalo Bills and Dallas Cowboys ran the ball better this year. Mariota made considerable strides as the season unfolded, although he did suffer a broken leg in a Week 16 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Murray rebounded from an odd year in Philadelphia by finishing third in the NFL in rushing. Tennessee’s young but talent-laden offensive line can only get better and Dick LeBeau’s defense may be a couple of key components from being extremely formidable.

Offseason needs: While only the Dallas Cowboys gave up fewer yards on the ground, some help is still needed in the secondary. Tennessee ranked 30th in the league in passing yards per game allowed. While the Titans only surrendered 35 offensive touchdowns in 16 games, 25 of those scores came through the air. But LeBeau’s defenders only picked off 12 passes and the team managed only 18 takeaways. Cornerbacks Jason McCourty and Brice McCain remain under contract, as is underrated strong safety Da’Norris Searcy. If the club fails to bring back Matt Cassel, Marrone’s club could be in the market for a veteran backup behind Mariota.

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