Boston Sports Then and Now

Sammy Morris will look to get the running game started for the Patriots.

Overview: Before the season began, many looked at this matchup between the Titans and Patriots as a possible preview of the AFC Championship game. The Patriots are still in contention, but the Titans have been the biggest disappointment in the NFL as they enter this contest with a 0-5 record.

Last Week: The Patriots struggled in the second half against the Denver Broncos and lost in overtime without ever having the offense get on the field. Tom Brady was only 5-of-14 in the second half as the Patriots were held scoreless.

The Titans lost 31-9 to Indianapolis and struggled on both sides of the ball. They gained only 245 yards while surrendering 367 yards and 31 points.

All-Time Series: The Patriots hold a 21-16-1 all-time series advantage. New England has won four of the last five games in the series, including a 40-23 victory over the Titans during the final week of the 2006 season.

Key Questions Entering Week Six:
New England Patriots: Tom Brady has been inconsistent so far this season, but over the last three years he has been very consistent in games played at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots have won his last 12 home starts with 25 touchdowns and five interceptions. If he is able to maintain that kind of production, it will be a good day for the Patriots.

Tennessee Titans: Traditionally known for their great defense, the Titans have been awful so far this season. They rank 29th in the NFL in points allowed and have given up 30 or more points three times in the last four weeks. If Tennessee hopes to end their season-opening losing streak, they must play solid defense against the Patriots.

Player To Watch:
New England Patriots: Sammy Morris has season-highs with 17 attempts and 68 rushing yards against the Broncos. It appears that he will be given the chance to replace Fred Taylor as the starter. He must show some consistency to take pressure off Brady and the passing attack.

Chris Johnson has been one of the few bright spots for the Titans so far in 2009 with 468 yards rushing.

Tennessee Titans: Running back Chris Johnson is among the leading rushers in the NFL with 468 yards on the ground in five games. The Patriots rank ninth in the league in rushing defense and will have to stop Johnson, as well as LenDale White, if they hope to defeat the Titans.

Predictions: I’m not ready to completely write off Jeff Fisher and the Tennessee Titans. They have too much overall talent to be winless. However, the Patriots are a strong team and Brady has been amazing at home. This could be a trap game if the Titans come out strong, but look for Brady and the Patriots to make the plays they need down the stretch.

Final Score: Patriots 28, Titans 17