Tennessee Titans Set for Texas Showdown: Key Factors to Watch

NASHVILLE – In their upcoming matchup at NRG Stadium in Houston, the Tennessee Titans are gearing up to face the Houston Texans. As both teams prepare for Sunday’s game, several key factors could play a decisive role in the outcome of the contest.

Will Levis Momentum

Quarterback Will Levis has shown significant improvement since rejoining the Titans’ lineup in Week 10. Over the past two games, Levis has excelled, averaging 235.0 passing yards per game alongside a 103.2 passer rating. His improved 3-to-1 touchdown to interception ratio and an impressive 8.7 yards per attempt are notable compared to his earlier performance this season. Levis is coming off a season-high 295 passing yards last week, raising questions about whether he can maintain this level against the Texans’ defense.

Defense Needs to Be Even Better

While Levis has been on an upward trajectory, Texans’ quarterback C.J. Stroud has faced challenges. Stroud’s passer rating has dropped to 73.9 since Week 7, placing him among the lowest in the league for those with 100-plus pass attempts. The Titans’ defense, currently ranked the best in the NFL for passing yards allowed, must pressure Stroud while also managing the threat posed by Texans’ receiver corps and running back Joe Mixon, who has racked up 764 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. The Titans rank second overall in total defense but are 26th in scoring, a discrepancy they aim to address by improving red-zone efficiency.

Run the Ball Better

Titans running back Tony Pollard’s recent dip in performance adds pressure to the offensive strategy. Pollard, who has been kept under 50 rushing yards for two consecutive weeks, needs to regain form to support Levis and alleviate pressure on the offensive line. With Tyjae Spears still sidelined due to concussion protocols, the onus falls on Pollard to take a larger share of the workload.

Can the Titans Protect the QB?

Protecting quarterback Will Levis is crucial as he’s been sacked 27 times this season. The offensive line, particularly the right side, has struggled. The return of Nicholas Petit-Frere at right tackle could provide some stability, albeit under pressure from a strong Texans defensive lineup that ranks in the top 10 for sacks per opponent pass attempt. Former Titans player, Denico Autry, is part of the Texans’ formidable defensive front that will challenge Tennessee’s pass protection.

NWI, Again

Nick Westbrook-Ikhine has emerged as a key offensive player for the Titans, recording five touchdowns in the last six weeks. He ties for third-most touchdown receptions in the NFL during this period, trailing only Ja'Marr Chase and Amon-Ra St. Brown. Additionally, Calvin Ridley‘s recent form, with 24 receptions for 368 yards since Week 8, offers optimism for the Titans’ receiving options.

Importance of Week 12

The Titans enter the game with a 2-8 record, putting their playoffs hopes on fragile ground. Facing the Texans as a 7 ½ point underdog, the Titans’ chances of postseason play remain dim. Historically, no team starting with such a record has reached the playoffs if they fall to 3-8. With a schedule that includes five AFC South games over the next seven weeks, success against the Texans could set the tone for a season turnaround, albeit tenuous.