Best NFL games of Week 17: Playoff scenarios galore

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JACKSONVILLE, FL – SEPTEMBER 17: Tennessee Titans linebacker Derrick Morgan (91) battles Jacksonville Jaguars offensive lineman Jermey Parnell (78) during the game between the Tennessee Titans and the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 17, 2017 at EverBank Field in Jacksonville, Fl. (Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

2. Jacksonville Jaguars at Tennessee Titans

The Jaguars may have already clinched the AFC South what that doesn’t mean they’re keeping the foot off the gas pedal. Head coach Doug Marrone said the team will not be resting their starters against the Titans in Week 17 and that’s big news, considering the Titans need a win to secure a playoff berth.

It looked like the Titans were on their way to the division title just four weeks ago but three straight losses have put them in danger of missing out on the postseason in its entirety. All they need is a win to get in and that’s not a gimme against the best defensive team in the NFL. The Titans may have handled their business in a 37-16 win over the Jaguars earlier this season but it’s a new day and the past doesn’t mean anything heading into Sunday. It’s all about the present.

Marcus Mariota and the Titans receivers don’t fare well against the Jaguars secondary on paper. The matchup to watch will be DeMarco Murray and Derrick Henry against the Jaguars’ front-seven. Murray has been diagnosed with a partial MCL tear and will try to play through it but will still be limited. That means Henry should see the bulk of the carries come Sunday. If he can take over on the ground, the Titans can win this game. The Jaguars are giving up more than 115 rushing yards per game this season.

A win and they’re in, but the Titans can’t guarantee themselves a win just by showing up on Sunday. This game is going to be a competitive one down to the wire.