Actually going to play a spread favorite! I think Ryan Tannehill back should mean a Titans win by at least three.

The Titans' string of good fortune nearly propelled them to a huge win at Kansas City last week. Continuing their methodical ground attack behind Derrick Henry only can work for so long. Fresh off their bye week, expect the Broncos' defense to get the necessary big plays and propel them. Take Denver and the points.

With Ryan Tannehill listed as questionable and about half of the Titans' defense already ruled out for Sunday, there's a pretty clear value spot on the Broncos. Granted it's difficult to bet them because of the inept offense and coaching we've seen thus far, but they are off a bye and should show some improvement. What's more, they are going against an opponent that might be even more limited offensively than they are. It's also a letdown spot for Tennessee coming off its near-upset of Kansas City as a two-touchdown underdog.

Tennessee QB Ryan Tannehill is poised to return after a two-week absence, which makes all the difference. His backup, Malik Willis, is not ready for prime time — nor Sunday afternoons. The Titans struggle against top-tier teams but are unbeaten ATS in five tries against below-.500 opponents. The strength of the Broncos’ brawny defense is against the pass, but the run-leaning Titans can move the sticks. Four Tennessee defenders ruled out this week would be concerning if not for Denver’s hapless offense.

The Titans' defense was on the field for 92 plays Sunday night, and now they face a rested Broncos team that gained momentum from its second-half performance versus Jacksonville. In that London win, Denver put together 98- and 80-yard touchdown drives after halftime. Tennessee's best defensive player, Jeffery Simmons, was in a walking boot Wednesday and has yet to practice this week. Pass rusher Bud Dupree (hp) also sat out Wednesday and Thursday. Even if Ryan Tannehill returns, he won't be as mobile as usual. The Broncos have been a huge disappointment, but they're 3-1 ATS as underdogs and will be in this game to the wire thanks to their elite defense.

The Titans are a late Patrick Mahomes rally away from being on a six-game winning streak despite rolling out a limited offense the last two weeks, which is a testament to their coaching edge in most matchups. That should certainly be on display here against the Broncos. But I still find myself drawn to Denver in this matchup, expecting that having two weeks to prepare for this game will benefit the Broncos coaching staff greatly. It could also do wonders for Russell Wilson, who has been playing through injury, and I'm not ruling out the Denver offense taking a step forward. Pair that with one of the league's best defenses, and they can keep this one within a field goal.