AFC Divisional Playoff
(4) Cincinnati Bengals at (1) Tennessee Titans
Bengals: They finally did it! For the first time in 31 years, they have won a playoff game! I’m beyond proud of this team because I know it hasn’t been easy. When they would have great regular seasons, the postseason would come and go for them because they would be eliminated into a long off-season. The other day, I was asked a question about Joe Burrow and who’s someone I could compare him too. Right off the bat, I said he has the mentality of Tom Brady. I didn’t say he plays like him so calm down. What I mean is he feels he can make every single throw and has that confidence to complete every single pass. As I was watching the game on Saturday, another player I can compare his style to came to mind. Joe is the closest thing I’ve seen to Drew Brees. Again, let me explain. Just as Drew did, Joe has command and control of his offense and if you’re open, he will get you the football. This Bengals offense has confidence through the roof. They give defenses fits because they can stretch the field with ease. Burrow and Chase haven’t missed a beat and I remember being critical of the Bengals for not addressing that offensive line. Before the game against the Raiders, I stated that I didn’t trust their defense and it was additional pressure on their offense to sustain long drives. They kick off the second round on Saturday afternoon.
Titans: When they acquired Julio Jones, there was talk about them being a favorite in the AFC. Julio, A.J. Brown and Derrick Henry were to form a formidable big three and this trio was expected to terrorize defenses. A.J. had been in and out the line up with injuries, Julio was often hurt and Derrick was doing king like things until his unfortunate foot injury during the regular season. Despite everything I listed, the Tennessee Titans are the one seed in the AFC playoffs for the first time since 2008 when Jeff Fisher was still coaching the team. That’s how long it’s been. At this moment, Mike Vrabel is my favorite to win Coach of the Year because he was still able to guide his team to the top seed in the conference and did it without his best player. That says something. They were able to keep it moving and that’s where the next man up comes into the equation. I like what I saw from them to end the year. They were able to get Brown back and he provided a spark for this entire offense. Though Derrick was out, they were still running the football, not at the high volume as 22 would, but it was something. I’m still trying to figure their defense out. The lack of a pass rush still concerns me and their secondary can be extremely hit or miss. The week off is over. It’s time to play football now.
Bengals X-Factor: D.J. Reader– With the unfortunate season-ending injury to Larry Ogunjobi, D.J. is more than capable of stepping up and being that replacement. The motor he plays with on the inside is relentless. For a man his size, he has an explosive first step off the snap of the football. I like how he uses both hands to get around guys. D.J. can rush the passer and win those one-on-one matchups. Against the run, he’s no slouch either.
Titans X-Factor: Nick Westbrook-Ikhine: When injuries decimated them, he stepped up and became a nice option for the Tennessee offense. Tannehill trusted him and he’s made some big catches for them down the stretch. He’s that inside presence and makes those catches in traffic. Nick can make his presence felt on the field. Look what A.J and Julio will command on the outside.
Final Thoughts: I would’ve never thought this would be a playoff matchup. But, here we are! This features the two Coach of the Year candidates in Zac Taylor and Mike Vrabel. Also, Derrick Henry is expected to return! This is why the Titans getting the first-round bye was so crucial for them. The Titans will do all they can to control the clock and play keep away from this Bengals offense. I’m expecting Burrow and Chase to pick up where they left off last week. Ja’Marr isn’t your typical rookie receiver. The loss of Ogunjobi is a big one. He’s that clog in the middle of the defense. If I’m the Titans, I would keep the Bengals defense guessing just because they’ll probably come out trying to stop Derrick. Beat them with the passing game. Can the Titans get to Burrow? Their pass rush has been iffy this year.
Prediction: Bengals 30, Titans 24
