Sunday’s NFL schedule will conclude with a matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and Tennessee Titans. In addition to being a rematch of Super Bowl XXXIV, both teams have their sights set on the playoffs this season. The Rams are listed as seven-point favorites at home, with the over/under for the game set at 53 points.
There’s no question that Los Angeles looks like one of the best teams in the NFL this year. They are off to a 7-1 start, although the Rams don’t have a lot of margin for error because they are tied atop the NFC West with the Cardinals, who are also 7-1. It’s also worth noting that the Rams have only played two teams that have a winning record this season.
Of course, the Titans will be the third team on that list, as Tennessee is currently 6-2 and leading the AFC South. After a rocky start to the season, including an embarrassing loss to the Jets, the Titans have won four in a row. That stretch has included wins over the Bills and Chiefs, making it clear that Tennessee is for real.
Something Missing
Despite winning four in a row, the Tennessee offense will have to reinvent itself midseason after losing Derrick Henry to injury. It’s no secret that the Titans have put themselves on Henry’s shoulders as much as possible, so they’ll have to find another way to move the ball. Ryan Tannehill has been solid but unspectacular thus far, throwing just ten touchdown passes compared to seven interceptions despite the Titans now having both Julio Jones and A.J. Brown.
Meanwhile, the Tennessee defense will have to pull its weight without Henry, especially against the Rams. The Titans have already given up at least 27 points in five of their eight games this season while only racking up 18 sacks in eight games. However, they are just two weeks removed from shutting down Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs, so the Titans are capable of playing better than their modest numbers indicate.
This is Working
The trade the Rams made this offseason for quarterback Matthew Stafford appears to be paying off. Stafford is averaging over 300 yards per game with 22 touchdown passes and just four interceptions through eight games. Equally important, Stafford has been sacked just seven times this year, so he’s remaining well protected, even if the Rams aren’t staying balanced offensively with their running game.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Rams are perhaps underachieving just a little. While they are only conceding 21 points per game, they’ve also played most of their games against losing teams. However, the Rams still have difference-makers like Aaron Donald and Leonard Floyd and may get some help this week after trading for Von Miller.
Too Much Missing
A week ago, the Titans would have looked to be in a lot better shape to challenge the Rams. But without Henry, there will be so much pressure on Tannehill in a game that could easily turn into a shootout against the LA offense. That’s not a good formula for the Titans, so bet on the Rams being able to win and cover the spread.
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