NFL Picks: Preseason Week 3 Patriots vs Titans

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As the sun sets this Friday night in Tennessee, the New England Patriots and the Tennessee Titans will be taking the field, wrapping up their preseason preparations. Both teams enter the contest with a 1-1 record in the preseason. The NFL Franchise Patriots recently faced the Green Bay Packers, while the Titans tussled with the Vikings. Fans eagerly await the opening kickoff at 8:15 PM.

BUSR NFL Lines:

• Spread: Patriots -2 (-110), Titans +2 (-110)
• Moneyline: Patriots -136, Titans +112
• Total: Patriots O 38.5 (-110), Titans U 38.5 (-110)

Titans’ Competition at the Quarterback Spot

For the Titans, there’s an intriguing subplot unfolding around the quarterback position. In their recent clash against the Vikings, Malik Willis played the entirety of the game, while rookie quarterback Will Levis sat it out due to an injury. Willis had an inconsistent performance, completing 10 of 17 passes for 85 yards and throwing an interception. Despite the Titans clinching a 24-16 victory, Willis didn’t solidify his claim for the backup position behind star quarterback Ryan Tannehill.

The canceled joint practices with the Patriots this week have made it tricky for both teams, especially the Titans, to gauge their player performances. While Tannehill might make a brief appearance in the upcoming game, the eyes will be on Levi’s health, determining the backup quarterback dynamics. Veterans like WR DeAndre Hopkins and RB Derrick Henry will probably not be risking much playtime, given the approach of Titans’ management towards preserving their health. The lack of these star players obviously impacts the Titan’s NFL Odds.

Patriots Prioritize Player Safety

New England’s recent game against the Packers was marred by a severe injury to rookie cornerback Isaiah Bolden. This unfortunate incident also led to the cancellation of the scheduled joint practices with the Titans. As a result, the Patriots might provide some of their main players with extended game time this Friday for conditioning against the Titans.

In their encounter with the Packers, starting quarterback Mac Jones demonstrated his skills in the early part of the game, completing 6 out of 9 passes for 59 yards. However, the Patriots’ defensive starters had a limited stint during the game.

With Bolden’s injury, there’s a potential reshuffle expected in both the cornerback position and the kickoff return team. Coach Bill Belichick might use this game to fine-tune his defensive formations and figure out special teams dynamics.

This final preseason game holds paramount importance. Unlike previous years, roster cutdown rules have changed, allowing teams to retain most of their training camp rosters going into the last preseason game. This offers a plethora of hungry players an opportunity to stake their claim, either in special teams or other key positions.

For the Patriots, an exciting battle looms between rookie WRs Kayshon Boutte and Demario Douglas. While Boutte presents a towering figure and deep threat, Douglas is the quintessential slot receiver. The duo is expected to be in the thick of action this Friday.

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The upcoming game might see the Patriots unveil a bit more of their tactical approach under new OC Bill O’Brien. Their recent challenges on the offensive line might be addressed by fielding a few more seasoned offensive linemen, offering better protection for their quarterbacks. The Titans, on the other hand, are expected to be more cautious, especially after Willis’ underwhelming performance.

Given Coach Vrabel’s history and approach to preseason games, he’ll likely prioritize keeping his primary players out of harm’s way. The Patriots, however, will be keen on utilizing this opportunity to synchronize better offensively.

As the two teams lock horns, the anticipation is that the Patriots, with a slightly aggressive stance, might edge out the Titans in this preseason finale. Take the Pats to cover the spread.