Indianapolis Colts vs. Tennessee Titans
Date/Time: Dec 22, 2024, 10:00 AM
Broadcast: CBS
Spread: Colts -3
Team Overview
Indianapolis Colts (6-8-0, 2nd AFC South)
The Colts are fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive, relying on a balanced offense that ranks 23rd in total yards per game (326.2). Their rushing attack has been their most consistent strength, ranking 13th in the league with 120.9 yards per game. However, the passing game has been largely ineffective, sitting near the bottom of the league at 27th (190.4 yards per game).
Defensively, the Colts are vulnerable, allowing 381.4 yards per game (29th) and struggling to stop the run, giving up 141.6 yards per game (30th). Their success will hinge on limiting big plays and forcing Tennessee into passing situations.
Tennessee Titans (3-11-0, 4th AFC South)
The Titans will start Mason Rudolph at quarterback, adding a layer of uncertainty to an offense that has already struggled this season. Tennessee ranks 28th in total yards per game (319.8) and 27th in points scored (18.1 per game). The team’s success offensively has been largely dependent on its rushing attack, which ranks 19th in the league with 110.4 yards per game.
Defensively, Tennessee has been one of the stronger units in the league, ranking 2nd in total yards allowed per game (310.4) and 3rd in passing yards allowed (182.2). However, their inability to prevent scoring, allowing 27.1 points per game (T-29th), has been a major issue.
Key Matchups
- Mason Rudolph vs. Colts’ Defense
With Rudolph at quarterback, the Titans’ offense will likely be conservative and focused on short passes and ball control. This could limit mistakes but also make the Titans one-dimensional, especially if the Colts focus on stopping the run. - Titans’ Rushing Attack vs. Colts’ Run Defense
The Titans’ running game faces a prime opportunity against a Colts defense that ranks 30th against the run, allowing over 140 yards per game. Establishing the run will be critical to easing pressure on Rudolph. - Colts’ Rushing Attack vs. Titans’ Defense
Indianapolis’ ground game will be tested by Tennessee’s 12th-ranked run defense. The Colts must find success here to control the clock and avoid becoming too reliant on their inconsistent passing game. - Third-Down Efficiency
Both teams are below average on third downs offensively, with the Titans slightly better defensively, ranking 16th in stopping conversions (38.7%). Key third-down stops could decide this game.
Prediction
This game will likely be a grind-it-out affair, with both teams leaning heavily on their rushing attacks. Mason Rudolph’s presence at quarterback for Tennessee will limit their offensive ceiling, but their strong defense and ability to run the ball could keep them in the game.
Indianapolis has more balance overall, but their struggles defensively, particularly against the run, make this a closer matchup than the records suggest. The Colts are more likely to win outright, but Tennessee should do enough to cover the spread.
Final Score Prediction: Colts 21, Titans 19
Betting Recommendation: Take the Titans +3
