Week 6 Game Thread: Patriots at Titans

Today, the 3-2 New England Patriots host the 0-5 Tennessee Titans in a game that will be seen as must-win for both teams.  The Patriots haven’t  lost back-to-back games since 2006, and are coming off of an overtime loss to the Denver Broncos.  Meanwhile, the Titans have yet to win a game in 2009, and they are viewing today’s game as a make or break game.

Offensively, the Titans feature the explosive and deceptive quick Chris Johnson, who is averaging six yards per carry.  Johnson is complemented by the power back LenDale White.  At quarterback, the Titans will start 36-year-old Kerry Collins, who has experienced his fair share of struggles this year.  If Collins struggles, the Patriots may also see the scrambling quarterback Vince Young, who is waiting his turn to play.  At receiver, the Titans showcase a three headed attack of Kenny Britt, Justin Gage, and Nate Washington.

On defense, the Titans have showed a strong ability to stop the run, but rank 31st in pass defense.  Both of their starting cornerbacks, Cortland Finnegan and Nick Harper are out for today’s game, meaning the Titans will be starting two rookie cornerbacks.    However, they still have Pro Bowl safety Michael Griffin in the secondary, to go along with a solid front seven that includes Keith Bulluck, Jovan Haye, and Kyle Vanden Bosch.

Key to the Game – Patriots: Air it Out and then some. With the Titans really hurting in the secondary, the Patriots will have plenty of chances to throw the ball today.  They will probably be able to throw the ball deep as well.  At this point in the season, the Titans’ biggest weakness is their pass coverage, and the Patriots should look to take advantage of that all day.

Player to Watch – Titans: Chris Jonhson, HB, #28. This really isn’t much of a question, who the player to watch for the Titans is this week.  Johnson is third in the NFL in rushing, and at 6.0 yards per carry, will force the Patriots to stay conservative on defense.  Also keep your eye on: Kenny Britt, WR, #18

Player to Watch- Patriots: Tom Brady, QB, #12. I normally wouldn’t put such a star player as the player to watch for the Patriots, but I really believe this could be Tom Brady’s breakout game.  Sure, Tom hasn’t thrown an interception since week 2.  And yes, he’s had some good games.  However, he has not had that game.  That game that makes you remember why he will be a first ballot hall-of-famer.  With the Titans’ secondary really beat up, I think this could finally be Tom’s day to have that break out game and connect with Randy Moss on the long ball. Also keep your eye on: Sebastian Vollmer, OT, #76

Greg’s Prediction: Patriots 34 Titans 10. Yes, I know the Titans are a talented team and their record does not reflect that.  But I think their pass defense is going to kill them again.  I think Brady and company will finally pull it all together and have that breakout game fans of New England have been looking for.