New England Patriots defensive matchups with Tennessee receivers

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FOXBORO, MA – DECEMBER 31: New England Patriots players celebrate during the second half against the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium on December 31, 2017 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) /

The New England Patriots defense clamps down in the red zone, and these matchups against Tennessee’s receiving threats could be crucial.

The Tennessee Titans don’t have great wide receivers and the New England Patriots know that. Tight end Delanie Walker was their biggest weapon this season, but he’s no Rob Gronkowski.

New England will look to completely shut down the Tennessee passing game, forcing RB Derrick Henry to be a one-man show if he wants to win the game. Making the Titans one-dimensional is a top priority for the Patriots, and it will all start with the play of their defensive backs.

Marcus Mariota isn’t a special quarterback, Delanie Walker isn’t Rob Gronkowski, and no one is scared of any wide receiver on the Titans roster. They simply do not have enough weapons to even begin to threaten New England. Look for Malcolm Butler, Stephon Gilmore, Eric Rowe, and Patrick Chung to all have huge games on Saturday night. If they do, this game won’t even be close and the Patriots will walk right into the AFC Championship Game once again.

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