Is the Tennessee Titans the AFC South Dark Horse?

Tennessee Titans quietly building a strong team to disrupt AFC South.

When it comes to the top contenders in the NFL, the usual AFC powerhouses like the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Cincinnati Bengals often dominate the conversation. However, there is one team in the AFC South that has quietly been building a strong foundation and has the potential to disrupt predictions: the Tennessee Titans.

Last season was a bit of an anomaly for the Titans, as they experienced their first losing season under coach Mike Vrabel. Despite this, many believe that the betting odds for their win total this season, set at 7.5 (-102), are unfairly low. The team has made significant improvements to their defense, adding athletic safeties and bolstering their front seven.

The offense, led by quarterback Ryan Tannehill and running back Derrick Henry, is still a bit of a question mark. While Tannehill may not be setting passing records, his reliability and mobility could provide a consistent output for the Titans. Paired with Henry, who had an impressive 1500-yard season with little help from the passing game, this duo could pose a major threat to opposing defenses. The addition of talented wide receivers like DeAndre Hopkins and Treylon Burks only adds to their potential, especially in the play-action game.

One of the key factors for the Titans this season will be the health of their key players. If they can stay injury-free, we could see Henry surpass the 1000-yard mark once again and Tannehill consistently perform at a high level. Additionally, when looking at their division, the odds seem to be in their favor.

Facing the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans twice in the season should, in theory, result in at least three wins. However, the Titans do face a challenging early-season schedule, with tough opponents like the New Orleans Saints, Los Angeles Chargers, Cleveland Browns, and Baltimore Ravens in their first six games. They also have a bye week in Week 7, which could disrupt their momentum.

One potential obstacle for the Titans is the quarterback position. If Tannehill's performance falters, the team may have to rely on backup quarterbacks like Malik Willis or Will Levis, which could significantly impact their dynamics and affect betting odds and predictions.

However, for those who are willing to take risks and see the potential where others may not, the Titans could offer intriguing betting options. The alternative win total of over 9.5 games is currently set at a tempting +300. Additionally, with the vulnerabilities of the Jacksonville Jaguars in the division, the Titans could be a smart bet at +310 to win the AFC South.

The upcoming season could be a nail-biter for the Titans, with small margins separating success from failure. But as we all know, anything can happen in the NFL, and this year, the Titans are a team that should not be overlooked. So keep an eye on them as they strive to make their mark in the league.