Week two of the NFL season will see the Tennessee Titans head into Motown to take on the Detroit Lions. Two teams who were on the different side of the win-loss column in week one could find themselves in a bit of a scoring duel. Week one saw the Lions pull out a late victory on the road against the Indianapolis Colts, 39-35. Meanwhile, the Titans controlled the first half of their game at home against the Minnesota Vikings, but eventually the strong Vikings defense led them to a 25-16 victory against the Titans.
Given the Lions will be home this week, it is understandable that they are laying 5.5 points against Tennessee. Vegas is projecting a relatively high scoring affair, with the over/under set at 47. Given both teams’ strong suit is their offense, and lack a strong defense, a lot of points can likely be expected in this one.
Detroit has already proven they are capable of going toe to toe in a shootout, with Matthew Stafford and Andrew Luck trading scores last week. Stafford has a wide array of options to choose from, with Golden Tate, Marvin Jones and Eric Ebron all capable receivers. The Titans defense is not going to be able to cover all of them, and Stafford should be able to pick them apart for several scores.
The question becomes will Marcus Mariota, and the Titans’ running game be able to match Stafford. Mariota had a strong showing in week one, throwing for two touchdowns and 271 yards. Pair that with his ability to run, as well as the two backs he has (DeMarco Murray and Derrick Henry), and the Titans are certainly capable of surpassing their 16 from last week. The Lions showed they do not care if they can stop an opposing offense, as they are going to rely on their offense to win games.
I find it hard to lay 5.5 with the Lions since their defense is simply not going to stop much. This is the second week in a row I am going to put my faith in Tennessee, but they burned me last week. So it is put up or shut up time for the Tennessee Titans, as I think this could be a slight letdown game for Detroit following last week’s big comeback.
Line: Lions -5.5, O/U: 47
Pick: Titans and the over
Result: Ten 16 – Det 15, Titans and the under
For the spreads and over/unders for all NFL week two match-ups, make sure to check out our week two master-sheet here!