The Tennessee Titans approach their season finale against the Houston Texans with a 3-13 record, aiming to conclude a challenging campaign on a positive note. Under first-year head coach Brian Callahan, the Titans have faced a rebuilding year marked by growing pains and the development of young talent. Despite the disappointing record, the team is focused on evaluating its roster and building momentum heading into the offseason. Offensively, rookie quarterback Will Levis has been at the helm, experiencing the typical ups and downs associated with a first-year signal-caller. Levis has showcased a strong arm and mobility but has also struggled with decision-making, leading to turnovers that have stalled drives. His development remains a priority, and this final game offers an opportunity to gain valuable experience against a division rival. The Titans’ rushing attack has been spearheaded by veteran running back Joe Mixon, who has amassed 887 rushing yards this season. Mixon’s physical running style has been a consistent aspect of the offense, providing stability amid the team’s passing game struggles. However, without a complementary aerial threat, defenses have often stacked the box to contain him. In the receiving corps, wide receiver Nico Collins has been a bright spot, leading the team with 832 receiving yards. Collins has developed chemistry with Levis, serving as a reliable target and demonstrating the ability to make contested catches. Tight end Cade Stover has also emerged as a dependable option, particularly in short-yardage and red-zone situations. Defensively, the Titans have encountered significant challenges, particularly in the secondary. Injuries to key players such as cornerbacks L’Jarius Sneed and Chidobe Awuzie have forced the team to rely on less experienced personnel, leading to vulnerabilities against the pass. Safety Amani Hooker has been a standout in the secondary, providing leadership and contributing with key tackles and interceptions, but his efforts have not been enough to offset the overall struggles of the unit. The Titans’ defensive front has been more reliable, with defensive end Danielle Hunter leading the charge. Hunter has recorded double-digit sacks this season, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks and anchor the pass rush. The run defense, however, has been inconsistent, allowing opponents to exploit gaps and sustain drives. Linebacker David Long Jr. has been one of the bright spots in run defense, leading the team in tackles and demonstrating solid instincts in stopping the run. The Titans will need a collective effort to limit Houston’s balanced offense, particularly the Texans’ ground game led by Dameon Pierce. Special teams have been a mixed bag for Tennessee. Kicker Randy Bullock has been reliable in field goal situations, but the return and coverage units have struggled with consistency. Poor field position and lapses in coverage have occasionally put the defense in difficult situations. Improving special teams performance will be a key area of focus for the Titans in this game. As the Titans prepare for their final matchup, head coach Brian Callahan has emphasized the importance of effort and execution. This game provides an opportunity for young players like Levis and Stover to gain valuable experience and for the team as a whole to showcase resilience despite a challenging season. A victory would not only provide a morale boost but also serve as a building block for the future. Keys to victory for the Titans include protecting Levis to allow him time to make plays, establishing the run with Mixon to control the tempo, and generating pressure on Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud. Defensively, limiting big plays and forcing turnovers will be essential to keeping the game competitive. Additionally, special teams must execute effectively to avoid giving Houston any additional advantages. While the Titans are underdogs in this matchup, division rivalries often defy expectations, and Tennessee has an opportunity to surprise the Texans if they play a disciplined and focused game. For a team in the midst of a rebuilding phase, a strong performance against a playoff-contending rival would provide a positive conclusion to the season and a sense of optimism heading into the offseason.