Expect Cincinnati to deliver first loss to Titans

For Tennessee Titans' fans, their worst performance of 2007 is easy to pick out. In late November, the Titans traveled to Cincinnati and got routed 35-6. The game was a disaster on all levels as the Bengals dominated the game.

On Sunday, Tennessee returns for what should be one of the more fascinating games of the week. The Titans played well (especially on defense) in beating Jacksonville 17-10. However, Cincinnati's offense was miserable in losing at Baltimore 17-10.

Against the Ravens, Bengals' quarterback Carson Palmer passed for only 99 yards and no touchdowns. Wide receivers T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Ocho Cinco (yes, that is his official name now) combined for only four catches. I can't see that happening two games in a row.

As for the Titans, running backs Chris Johnson and LenDale White ran the ball effectively against Jacksonville. The offensive line is clearly the strength of the offense right now, and Johnson has brought some much needed big-play potential. Still, regardless of whether Vince Young or Kerry Collins is quarterbacking, the Titans are still incapable of delivering big plays in the passing game.

It looks like another close game for the Titans.

The pick: Cincinnati 20 Tennessee 17

Other games: Indianapolis over Minnesota, Jacksonville over Buffalo, Houston over Baltimore, Seattle over San Francisco, Arizona over Miami

Last week: 4-2 (.667)