Titans could contain Colts offence in key AFC South clash

Sky Sports Action, 6pm Sunday

Indianapolis and Tennessee both made poor starts to the season, but a lack of quality in their conference has seen them emerge as potential playoff contenders in an open AFC South race.

A record of 4-5 may not seem like anything to boast about for the Colts but they have won their last three and host Tennessee knowing that victory will see them leapfrog their divisional opponents, with leaders Houston within sight at 6-3.

While they continue to struggle on defence, the return from injury of quarterback Andrew Luck has been a revelation for Indianapolis, and they have scored the fourth-most points in the AFC.

The Titans have been nothing special on offence but they have allowed an average of just 16.78 points per game, the fewest in the league.

That has helped them to a 5-4 record, and their ability to frustrate teams was on full display last week when they crushed Tom Brady and New England 34-10.

None of their nine games this season has seen more than 49 points scored, and going under could be the way to go on this game too.

Indianapolis are capable of putting up big scores but their 37-5 demolition of Buffalo serves as a reminder that the Titans offence will have to work to find the endzone.

While the Colts have home advantage, Mike Vrabel’s Titans will be highly motivated and they must now believe they can make a push for the playoffs.

This looks set to be a tough contest that could easily turn into a battle for defensive supremacy. Tennessee’s unwillingness to give up points could be Luck’s biggest test since his return.

Recommendation
Under 51.5 points
2pts 10-11 Coral, Ladbrokes, Sky Bet

The lowdown
Venue Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana
Surface Artificial
Weather Stadium roof will be closed
Vegas handicap Indianapolis -1.5
Vegas points line 50.5

Team news
Tennessee
Wide receivers Taywan Taylor (foot) and Tajae Sharpe (ankle) are rated questionable. Offensive tackle Jack Conklin (concussion) is set to return but guard Quinton Spain (ankle) is questionable.

Indianapolis
Tight ends Ryan Hewitt (ankle) and Erik Swoope (knee) and cornerback DJ Killings (ankle) have been ruled out. Safety Malik Hooker (hip/illness) and cornerback Nate Hairston (ankle) are rated questionable.

Key stat
Tennessee have not conceded more than 27 points in a game this season.

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