Titans vs. Steelers: Preview, score prediction for Week 11

Tennessee Titans vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

This offseason, the Tennessee Titans were viewed as an emerging team and many felt were ready to win their first AFC South title since 2008. The Pittsburgh Steelers were thought to be one of the main contenders to the New England Patriots’ Super Bowl crown.

Well, on Thursday night at Heinz Field, the 6-3 Titans and 7-2 Steelers — both riding four-game winning streaks — collide for the first time since 2014. And while both clubs are in first place in their respective divisions, we are still kind of waiting to see the best of both of the teams.

So then, what will we see on Thursday Night Football in Week 11?

Keys to Victory

Mike Mularkey’s team will look to push the ball down the Steelers’ defense’s throats. It’s a unit that has shown some vulnerability to the run. The Titans’ combination of running backs DeMarco Murray and Derrick Henry, as well as quarterback Marcus Mariota, are the main reasons Tennessee ranks eighth in the NFL in rushing yards per game. Of course, if Pittsburgh is able to jump out to an early lead, the Titans may have to rely on the passing game more than they would like.

Betting Odds

Point Spread: Steelers -7
Moneyline: Titans -127, Steelers +113
Over/Under: 44

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Prediction

The Pittsburgh Steelers haven’t been overly sharp on offense this season. It looks like a team that is still tinkering with its attack and the results have been underwhelming at times. Then again, at this stage a year ago Tomlin’s team was 4-5 and ran the table to win the AFC North. This won’t be an easy game for the Black and Gold because nothing has come easy for this team this season. But the Tennessee Titans, while playing better as of late, still has its weak spots. And don’t be surprised if Ben Roethlisberger comes up with his biggest performance of the season.

Final Score: Pittsburgh Steelers: 29, Tennessee Titans: 21