The Denver Broncos are the best team in football at defending the pass. Behind the strength of their havoc-wreaking outside linebackers and otherworldly secondary, Denver ranks first in passing yards allowed (192.7), opponents' yards per attempt (5.8) and sacks (36).
What the Broncos don't do so well defensively is defend the run. Denver is giving up the fifth-most rushing yards per game (122.8). Teams have shown they can push around the Broncos' front seven in rushing situations. Expect the Tennessee Titans to try and do that when they meet the Broncos on Sunday.
Tennessee averages the third-most rushing yards per game (141.5) and the third-most yards per carry (4.8) in the NFL. Running back DeMarco Murray, who was stuck in Philadelphia last year, looks rejuvenated behind one of the best offensive lines in football. Murray is second in total yards and has surpassed the century-mark five times this season. He's scored eight touchdowns.
He's even thrown for one...
The Titans (6-6) are well rested coming off a bye week. Their young quarterback, Marcus Mariota, has been on fire for two months straight. Since Week 5, he's thrown 25 touchdowns and three interceptions. The NFL's best defense will have its hands full Sunday.
The Von Miller oversized glasses matchup to keep an eye on
Trevor Siemian vs. the Titans' secondary.
Siemian looks like he's on pace to start Sunday after being sidelined last weekend with a sprained foot. If Siemian is healthy, he's got a golden opportunity to build on his career-best game against the Chiefs in Week 12.
The Titans' secondary is not good. The unit ranks 26th in passing yards allowed per game. Tennessee cut veteran cornerback Perrish Cox after he played a part in allowing Bears quarterback Matt Barkley to throw for 316 yards and three touchdowns in Week 12.
That means Tennessee is going to start either LeShaun Sims or Valentino Blake at cornerback opposite Jason McCourty. If your reaction to that news is, "Who the hell are those guys?" you're probably not alone.
How to watch the game
When: 11 a.m.
Where: Nissan Stadium, Nashville
TV: CBS
The line
Denver +1
The pick
Broncos 24, Titans 14
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