The Indianapolis Colts enter Week 16 with a 6-8 record, hosting the Tennessee Titans at Lucas Oil Stadium. Under head coach Shane Steichen, the Colts are striving to keep their slim playoff hopes alive, needing a win to stay in contention. Offensively, rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson has been at the helm, displaying both promise and growing pains. Richardson has accumulated over 2,800 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, while also contributing 500 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns. His athleticism and arm strength have been evident, but decision-making and ball security remain areas for improvement. The ground game is spearheaded by Jonathan Taylor, who has rushed for over 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. Taylor’s physical running style and ability to break big plays make him the focal point of the Colts’ offense. Against a struggling Titans defense, Taylor has an opportunity to have a significant impact, especially if Indianapolis can control the clock and wear down Tennessee’s front seven. Backup running back Zack Moss has also been productive in a complementary role, giving the Colts flexibility in their rushing attack. In the passing game, Michael Pittman Jr. has been the standout receiver, leading the team with over 900 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns. Pittman’s size and reliable hands make him a go-to option for Richardson, particularly in contested catch situations. Rookie Josh Downs has emerged as a solid secondary option in the slot, while tight ends Kylen Granson and Jelani Woods provide Richardson with reliable targets in short-yardage and red-zone situations. However, the Colts’ passing attack remains inconsistent, often struggling to stretch the field against more disciplined secondaries. The offensive line, anchored by Quenton Nelson, has had an up-and-down season but remains capable of dominating at the point of attack. Protecting Richardson will be key in this matchup, especially against a Titans defense that, while inconsistent, features playmakers like Harold Landry III who can disrupt the pocket. Defensively, the Colts have been solid, particularly against the run, where they rank in the top 10 in the NFL, allowing just 105 rushing yards per game. This strength will be critical as they face Derrick Henry, one of the league’s premier power backs. Defensive tackles DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart anchor the interior and will need to win their battles at the line of scrimmage to keep Henry contained. The Colts’ pass rush, led by Kwity Paye and Samson Ebukam, has been effective at times, tallying 36 sacks this season. Generating consistent pressure on Tennessee’s quarterback—whether it’s Will Levis or Mason Rudolph—will be key in forcing mistakes and keeping the Titans’ offense off balance. Linebacker Shaquille Leonard remains the leader of the defense, with his 110 tackles and playmaking ability setting the tone for the unit. The secondary, however, has been more vulnerable, allowing over 250 passing yards per game. Cornerbacks Kenny Moore II and JuJu Brents will need to step up against the Titans’ receiving corps, particularly Treylon Burks, who has the potential to create big plays downfield. Safeties Julian Blackmon and Rodney Thomas II must also remain disciplined to prevent Tennessee from exploiting soft zones. On special teams, kicker Rodrigo Blankenship has been steady, converting 86% of his field goal attempts, while punter Rigoberto Sanchez continues to excel at flipping field position. With the Colts likely to rely on field position and clock management, special teams could play a critical role in securing a victory. The Colts’ path to victory hinges on their ability to dominate the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. Offensively, they will look to establish Jonathan Taylor early and allow Richardson to play within the system without forcing risky throws. Defensively, they must contain Derrick Henry and pressure Tennessee’s quarterback into mistakes. With slim playoff hopes on the line, expect the Colts to approach this game with urgency and focus as they aim to take care of business at home.