It is all about the run on both sides of the ball for the Titans. King Henry is most of the offense, but Tennessee isn't even close to having the best running stats. The Titans run a very efficient offense, scoring more points with less yards. Tannehill is out, and while he doesn't put up huge numbers, he has been accurate, effective and doesn't make many mistakes. It remains to be seen how much the inclusion of Willis will affect the Titans' offense management. Willis will bring his own abilities. He can run effectively, adding to an otherwise one-dimensional run offense.
The Texans are en-mired in the depths of the NFL, averaging just 17 points and giving up 22, although the Raiders put up 38 last week. They also have a fine running back in Pierce, but face a very tough Titans run defense that has limited teams to just 45 yards and few points in their last three games. Mills could have some success in the air for Houston. The Titans give up plenty of passing yards and points, but are physically very tough on passers with 60 pressures and 3 sacks per game on avg. Mills had his best game in week seven, but will likely have less time to operate this week. He has been pretty average otherwise, with 5 picks to just 7 TDs, and a passer rating of 83.
The Texans possess arguably the worst rush defense in the league, and could be chewed up by Henry, and maybe Willis. They are a better bet against the pass, but there may not be much of that this week from the Titans. If this were just about any other team than the Texans, I would be worried for the Titans' chances, but with the loss of Tannehill, the Texans are now favored, and I just can't see that happening. Take the Titans to cover.