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The Tennessee Titans may have finished 3-13 last season, but they’re favored by 1.5 points over the defending champion Broncos this Sunday at Nissan Stadium. The Titans are seeking their first season over .500 since 2011, and can finish tied for the AFC South lead with a home win over the Broncos.
Both teams have won three of five games heading into Sunday, but the Titans are coming off the bye and will be extra refreshed. That will help their physical style of play, bolstered by the league’s third-best rushing offense. The Broncos are 27th in total rushing yards allowed, and surrendered 154 rushing yards to Jacksonville last week.
The Titans build off their run game, and then let Marcus Mariota air it out with playaction passing. Mariota has at least 270 yards passing in four of his last five outings, and has played five of his last six games without throwing an interception.
The Broncos are led by Trevor Siemian, who will return to action after missing last week’s game with a foot injury. Paxton Lynch started last week and earned his first career victory as a starter.
The Titans have failed to rush for 100 yards three times this season, and they’re 0-3 in those games. The Broncos are 8-4 against the spread this season, but a well-rested Titans team should push around the Broncos defense.
Heavy’s Pick: Broncos 21 Titans 26. Titans -1.5. Over on the Point Total. (43.5)