The Tennessee Titans edged their way into the postseason last week with a 35-14 win over the division rival Houston Texans.
Now, they turn their attention to the New England Patriots, who come off a 27-24 loss to the Miami Dolphins seeking redemption.
Defeating the Patriots on the road in Gillette Stadium will be no simple task, but the Titans have the tools they need on both sides of the ball to execute and get the job done.
Here are three things the Titans must do to come out with the win on Saturday night.
1. Protect Tannehill.
Ryan Tannehill has brought new life to this Titans offense since he took over the starting position in Week 7, but Tennessee faces a big challenge up against the No. 1 team in total defense.
Patriots opponents have a 62.8 passer rating, but the Titans can keep things rolling if Tannehill is comfortable in the pocket.
Tannehill has been successful this season, completing 70.3% of his passes for 2,742 yards with 22 touchdowns and six interceptions.
The Titans will need him to stay hot on Saturday, and the offensive line must play their role in that.
2. Pressure Brady.
Patriots quarterback Tom Brady is arguably the best to ever play the position, and stopping him isn’t simple.
The last time the two teams met in the postseason, the Titans didn’t bring Brady down once.
It was a successful day for the signal-caller, who completed on 35-of-53 passes for 337 yards and three touchdowns in a 35-14 victory over Tennessee.
The Titans defense will need to get into the pocket and keep Brady rattled to avoid a similar scenario.
3. Score in the red zone.
Making the most of trips to the red zone will be important to the outcome of this one.
Touchdowns are obviously what the Titans want in these situations, and it’s important to note that newly added kicker Greg Joseph still hasn’t attempted a field goal since joining Tennessee.
That will likely change on Saturday night, and he’ll need to answer the call.
