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New England Patriots: 5 Tennessee Titans to watch for

By Kenneth Teape

FOXBORO, MA - DECEMBER 20: Marcus Mariota #8 of the Tennessee Titans stands under center during the first half against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on December 20, 2015 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
FOXBORO, MA - DECEMBER 20: Marcus Mariota #8 of the Tennessee Titans stands under center during the first half against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on December 20, 2015 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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New England Patriots: 5 Tennessee Titans to watch for
KANSAS CITY, MO – JANUARY 6: Running back Derrick Henry #22 of the Tennessee Titans breaks free from the tackle attempt of free safety Ron Parker #38 of the Kansas City Chiefs on his way to scoring a fourth quarter touchdown during the AFC Wild Card Playoff Game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 6, 2018 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jason Hanna/Getty Images) /

Derrick Henry

There has been a lot of discussion throughout the season that the Titans should turn their backfield over to Derrick Henry. Veteran DeMarco Murray had been the nominal starter and splitting time with Henry, but there was a clear gap in production.

With Murray sidelined against the Chiefs, Henry got his first chance to really shine on the big stage and literally ran with it. Henry was unstoppable, as he piled up 156 yards on 23 carries, including a 35-yard touchdown. He also added two receptions for 35 yards. The 35 yards tied for second most on the team behind Walker.

Henry made the most of the extra opportunities and will once again be leading the backfield this week. Murray has been ruled out, so Henry will be the every down workhorse back once again. This could be trouble for the Patriots, as Henry is coming into the game hot.

Henry presents plenty of problems for opposing defenses. Given his size, 6’3”, and athleticism, he is not an easy player to bring down. The Patriots will have to figure out a way to contain him, as they have struggled at times this season against the run.

The Patriots will be getting Alan Branch back, which should help improve their run defense. They will need all the help they can get against the former Alabama running back.

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