Colts vs. Titans: 4 2nd-Half Keys to Victory for Tennessee

The Tennessee Titans came into this game looking to rebound from the punch to the stomach that the Houston Texans delivered last week.  And what better way to get back into the win column than a date with the winless Colts?

The Titans haven't taken the Colts lightly today, but they have looked sluggish at times. Here's what Tennessee must do to put this game away in the second half:  

1. Take Fewer Risks in the Passing Game

The Titans have developed a bad habit in recent weeks of allowing promising drives to stall right on the cusp of scoring range.  

After mixing up runs, play-action passes, and high-percentage throws with awe-inspiring efficiency, they somehow abandon what works in favor of taking needlessly risky shots downfield.

Matt Hasselbeck has had a great season for Tennessee, but he can't go forcing balls into coverage and jeopardize a perfectly good chance at points.  

2. More Carries for Javon Ringer 

It's hard to explain what's going on with Chris Johnson.  The consensus "Best RB in the NFL" has transformed into an offensive liability whom Mike Munchak and staff won't hesitate to bench.  

At any rate, in order to get some separation coming out of the locker room, the Titans should give the Colts' defense a steady diet of Javon Ringer, who has looked like the top back on this offense.  

3. Special Teams, Special Teams, Special Teams

Considering the importance of special teams in setting the tone and putting points on the board in today's NFL, I find it remarkable how often that unit is overlooked.  The blocked punt was clearly the one big highlight for the Titans in this one, but their special teams, whether by avoiding silly penalties or pinning Indy deep in its own territory, has consistently outplayed the Colts' throughout this contest.  

Continuing to get the job done on special teams should lead Tennessee to an easy victory. 

4. Keep Getting Pressure on Painter

With a 20-0 lead heading into the locker room, it would be easy to get complacent on the defensive side of the ball.  But part of what's been so effective for the Titans is the pressure they've applied on Painter.  He's obviously an inexperienced NFL quarterback; Tennessee's pass rush will go a long way towards forcing him to become too reliant on his crutches and make bad throws.