11 a.m., Titans by 3
Last meeting
Patriots won 38-30 at New England on Oct. 5, 2003.
Spotlight on: Titans QB Vince Young
Right. Like you knew Titans would be in the playoff hunt in late December after that 0-5 start. They owe most of it to Young, who has reeled off six straight W’s after losing first two NFL starts. Young has led four comebacks in the fourth quarter or overtime.
Who knew?
The Bears’ defense, generally regarded as one of league’s most dominant, has allowed 229 points, 15 more than the Patriots’. New England’s 214 points allowed are the second-fewest in the league behind Baltimore’s 194. Only four teams – the Ravens, Pats, Bears and Jaguars – have allowed fewer than 250.
Etc.
Must be the pillow mints: Pats a tale of two teams – 5-3 at home, 6-1 on road. … NE CB Asante Samuel second in the loop with eight interceptions, trailing only Champ Bailey. … Titans have winning record despite lousy stats: 27th in league in offense, 32nd in D. … Bill Belichick 6-7 career vs. Titans. … Has a team ever made the playoffs after starting 0-5? What’s that? You’re right. Dumb question. … A show of hands, please, among AFC teams who want to play the Titans in the postseason. Anybody? Thought so. … How much talent do Chargers have? They’re leading the league in scoring despite losing WR Reche Caldwell to Pats. He leads club with 57 catches. … Tenn LB Keith Bulluck leads club in tackles for fifth consecutive season.
Prediction: Titans 24, Patriots 19
