Titans vs. 49ers: 5 crucial matchups for San Francisco in Week 15
By Peter Panacy
![SAN FRANCISCO - NOVEMBER 08: Chris Johnson #28 of the Tennessee Titans runs is tackled by Patrick Willis #52 of the San Francisco 49ers at Candlestick Park on November 8, 2009 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) SAN FRANCISCO - NOVEMBER 08: Chris Johnson #28 of the Tennessee Titans runs is tackled by Patrick Willis #52 of the San Francisco 49ers at Candlestick Park on November 8, 2009 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/76fdf515a9b322096e867ec591570d6c868398d5766a3c8aa17cfca04ef64df9.jpg)
The San Francisco 49ers return home after a two-game road trip, hosting the Tennessee Titans in Week 15. Niner Noise explores the five biggest matchups to watch in this contest.
It was weird, almost refreshing to see the 3-10 San Francisco 49ers open up as favorites over the 8-5 Tennessee Titans.
The Niners’ Week 15 contest has now turned into a pick’ em, according to Sportsbook Review, but it’s still a pleasant change from the all-to-frequent spreads against San Francisco we saw earlier this season.
At any rate, the 49ers return from a two-game road trip to host quarterback Marcus Mariota and the Titans this Sunday, Dec. 17. Tennessee, who is coming off a 12-7 loss to the Arizona Cardinals last week, is still in the hunt for a playoff spot.
And while San Francisco’s playoff chances evaporated a long while ago, there’s still the chance to play the spoiler role.
The Titans’ 2017 campaign hasn’t been as impressive as many thought. Quarterback Marcus Mariota has regressed a bit since last year, and the so-desired wide receiver help needed last offseason has materialized with Corey Davis and Erick Decker on the roster.
Still, the Niners are going to need to excel in a number of key matchups during this contest to possibly come away with three consecutive wins.
Here are the five most important.