Colts at Titans: Previews, Predictions and More

Indianapolis Colts vs Tennessee Titans

Man, what has happened to the Indianapolis Colts? After again entering the 2016 season with high expectations, they’ve again failed to meet them in spectacular fashion. Now they’re in last place in the AFC South heading into Week 7. They’ll need a big win against a divisional foe on the road, taking on the Tennessee Titans.

Last week was the most recent Indy meltdown. Despite having a lead late in the game, the Colts allowed the Houston Texans to rally back and win the game in overtime. The true head-scratcher of the game came when Pagan elected to go for it on fourth down instead of kicking a field goal.

Simply put, this Colts team is bad. Not only is the offensive line abysmal, the defense is as suspect as ever. That bodes immensely well for the division’s other teams, though. Incidentally, the Titans are just that and are looking pretty good. After a Week 1 loss against the Vikings, the Titans have seemingly found their footing on offense.

Prior to the season, many thought the Titans would implement a throwback, “smash-mouth” style of football. It didn’t work too well against the Vikings, but its now the identity of this football team. Tennessee ranks as the third best rushing team in the entire NFL.

More from NFL Spin Zone

Additionally, the offensive line is meshing well, which is allowing second-year pro Marcus Mariota to succeed. The former Oregon Duck has tossed 1,372 yards, 10 touchdowns and six interceptions, all while completing 61.9 percent of his passes. That’s good for a quarterback rating of 88.3.

Keys to Victory

Tennessee needs to capitalize on Indianapolis’ terrible defense. The Titans rushing attack will flourish against the Colts lackluster rush defense. So far this year, Indy iss surrendering 117.7 yards per game to opponents. The Colts also give up 4.8 yards per every carry. That means the Titans should continue to function through their ground-and-pound attack. They’ve been doing it with a lot of success so far, so logic says that continues.

DeMarco Murray’s enjoying a bounce-back year after a dreadful year in Philadelphia. Murray’s the NFL’s fourth leading rusher, totaling 526 yards with a 4.6 average. By asserting their dominance in the run game, the Titans can operate from play-action and take advantage of the Colts’ defensive deficiencies.

Odds

Point Spread: Tennessee -2.5
Money line: Tennessee -145, Indianapolis +125
Over/Under: 45

Predictions

I expect the Colts’ misfortunes to continue against the Titans. Although it’s only week seven, a victory over the regularly dominant Colts would do wonders for the Titans’ postseason hopes. The Titans should get this victory at home. Furthermore, a loss for the Colts would likely end the Pagano era in Indy. I can’t imagine what this squad will look like after another loss in-division.

Pick: Indianapolis Colts: 14, Tennessee Titans: 27

Home/Indianapolis Colts