What's at stake:
The Tennessee Titans come into this game with a 6-3 record. They are currently a half-game in front of the Cleveland Browns for the sixth seed in the AFC and a half-game behind the Jacksonville Jaguars for the five-slot. Tennessee lost to Jacksonville, 28-13, last week.
The Denver Broncos, despite entering tonight's game with a 4-5 record, sit only a half-game behind the first-place San Diego Chargers in the AFC West. They are coming off a 27-11 win over division rival Kansas City. With a win, the Broncos would not only move into a tie with the Chargers, but they would move to within one game of the sixth and final playoff spot in the conference.
Key offensive players:
LenDale White, halfback, Tennessee- The big 22-year old back has rushed for over 100 yards in three of his past four games, although he was held to only 12 yards on eight carries in the team's loss to Jacksonville last weekend. However, tonight would seem to be an ideal game for White to regain his form, as Denver has the 30th ranked run defense in the league.
Brandon Marshall, wide receiver, Denver- Although he is not very well known, Marshall is slowly developing into one of the NFL's better receivers. He has compiled 694 yards of 51 catches this season, and he is only 23. At 6'4", 230 pounds, Marshall also has great size. Look for him to take advantage of Tennessee's smallish defensive backs tonight. He is Jay Cutler's number one target.
Key defensive players:
Chris Hope, strong safety, Tennessee- Because Marshall is such a tough matchup for the Titans' cornerbacks, Hope is going to have to play a big role in providing some help over the top. One of the best safeties in the NFL, the physical 27-year old is not having near the impact that he had last season (121 tackles, five interceptions, 15 passes defended). He has only defended three passes all-year long. That needs to change, starting tonight.
Ian Gold, outside linebacker, Denver- Gold is going to need to help contain Vince Young and keep him in the pocket. Young obviously likes to run (217 yards on the ground this year), and when he is not allowed to roll out, his effectiveness is reduced quite a bit. The Broncos have to make him throw the football, as he the 2006-07 Offensive Rookie of the Year has only a 62.2 quarterback rating this season. Should Denver be successful in cutting off Young's rushing attempts, Gold will be a big part of it.
Keys to the game:
Tennessee- Don't allow out-of-nowhere rookie sensation halfback Selvin Young to beat you. If the Titans can contain him, it will force Cutler to throw the ball. Outside of Marshall, Cutler does not have many targets to throw to.
Denver- As stated previously, keep Young in the pocket. If they do that, they should win the game. However, it's much easier said than done.
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