Breaking down major NFL playoff implications in Week 11 schedule
By Ian Wharton
Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts
With both the Titans and Colts trailing the 6-3 Houston Texans, this has to be treated as a must-win game for each. Only one-game is separating each team from each other, but Houston’s six-game win streak has made their own win streaks a moot point. Falling behind any more is a death sentence.
It’s not surprising the Titans are competitive in the division, but how they’ve gotten to their 5-4 mark is. The offense is still finding itself, but at least offensive coordinator Matt LaFleur has correctly identified Corey Davis and Dion Lewis as his two best playmakers. Quarterback Marcus Mariota and the offensive line have been inconsistent though for a variety of reasons.
LaFluer hasn’t been able to get Mariota as much protection as last year as he tries to spread defenses out with more receivers. In turn, those receivers have struggled with drops and separation. Mariota has played better in recent weeks, but he’s also prone to going several games without difference-making plays.
On the other hand, the Colts have vastly exceeded expectations in Frank Reich’s first year as the head coach. It’s clear how much he meant to the Philadelphia Eagles’ offense now that we’re seeing how both are doing this year.
The Colts boast one of the top offensive lines in the league, if not the best, after being putrid for years. The offense has certainly benefitted from a healthy Andrew Luck, who has shouldered a ridiculous load after coming back from injury. He’s only responded with career-best numbers.
Their defense is mediocre, but that’s better than what the on-paper talent said they’d be. This is a well-coached team. They have an uphill battle for the Wild Card, but they’re going to give the Titans all they can handle.
Prediction: Colts 31-28