NFL Playoffs: Here’s how Titans might actually upset Patriots

1. Marcus Mariota and Derrick Henry are a dynamic duo

The most important factor in a potential upset is the play of two men: quarterback Marcus Mariota and running back Derrick Henry. Mariota had a very poor year during the regular season, throwing a ton of interceptions and looking like he regressed from the 2016 season. Part of that could be chalked up to his mediocre receiving corps even though he didn’t have great options anytime before. Mariota played at his best this past weekend when the offense went up-tempo and he was more in control of what was happening. Tennessee would be wise to play to that strength this week.

They may not want to go in a hurry-up mode in the truest sense of the word because they want to keep the ball away from New England’s offense. However, they can still get the play call in and let Mariota run the show.

Next: Every NFL Team's Best Draft Pick Of All-Time

The best way to accomplish a massive edge in time of possession is feeding the beast known as Derrick Henry. It’s really a shame he didn’t get more work in the regular season. Henry is a very talented back that the Titans mostly kept on the sideline for an ineffective DeMarco Muray. Now, part of that could be because Henry is not yet an all-around back. Witness Mariota getting crushed here in part because Henry didn’t pick up a late blitz.

He may have his warts in pass protection, but Henry still broke out last week to the tune of almost 200 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown. The Titans will need that type of performance again this week if they expect to walk out of New England with a victory.