The Tennessee Titans and Indianapolis Colts both sit at 6-5 ahead of a highly-anticipated AFC South matchup Sunday at Lucas Oil Stadium. This a must-win for both teams as they try to keep pace with Houston for the division and the tight race for the AFC wild card as well.
If the Colts want to get back on track after a long week, here are six Titans the Colts must game plan for in the Week 13 divisional matchup.
QB Ryan Tannehill
After winning four of their last five, Tannehill seems to be the short-term solution in Tennessee. Getting after him and forcing him to make rushed throws will be key for the Colts in this one. With the ability to spread the ball to a variety of receivers, shutting down Tannehill will be vital to a victory.
The Colts must also be aware of Tannehill’s ability as a runner, which is an underrated aspect of his game.
RB Derrick Henry
November-Henry is a real thing. The fourth-year back has been criticized throughout his career for being inconsistent on a week to week basis but in the month of November, Henry has been very productive during his time in Tennessee.
The Colts will have to shut down Henry in order to throw the entire offense off track in this one. When the Titans get the run game going, their offense becomes a lot more threatening.
WR A.J. Brown
The rookie receiver has been a great addition to this offense. With the size to go over the top of defenders and the speed to create separation, Brown has emerged as one of the best young receivers in the game.
Look for Pierre Desir to matchup against Brown on Sunday, mostly because of a size comparison. Don’t be surprised if Malik Hooker or Marvel Tell matchup against Brown as well.
LB Rashaan Evans
Leading the team in tackles with 85 on the year, Evans is one of the better linebackers in all of football. His run stopping ability is incredible and his speed makes it easy for him to cover tight ends as well. With Eric Ebron being placed on IR on Monday, Jack Doyle and others will have to find success after a lackluster performance in Houston.
CB Logan Ryan
Ryan has been dominant throughout his entire career, filling up a stat sheet week to week. His line on the year is 78 total tackles, three interceptions, three forced fumbles, 16 passes defended and 3.5 sacks. Ryan will most likely be on T.Y. Hilton all game as Hilton tries to bounce back after a pitiful performance against Houston.
LB Harold Landry III
The other linebacker in the Titans talented duo is Landry. Where Evans is more utilized in the passing game, Landry is moved all around the field and is a talented pass rusher. With eight sacks on the season, it will be crucial for the Colts to stop Landry blitzing up the middle in order to give Brissett time in the pocket.