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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) /
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NASHVILLE, TN – OCTOBER 20: Delanie Walker #82 of the Tennessee Titans and NaVorro Bowman #53 of the San Francisco 49ers try to catch a tipped pass at LP Field on October 20, 2013 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TN – OCTOBER 20: Delanie Walker #82 of the Tennessee Titans and NaVorro Bowman #53 of the San Francisco 49ers try to catch a tipped pass at LP Field on October 20, 2013 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images) /

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.