NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Titans dashed the Jacksonville Jaguars’ playoff aspirations with a decisive 28-20 victory on Sunday. Despite the Jaguars entering the game controlling their destiny for a second straight AFC South title, the Titans’ robust defense and Derrick Henry’s dominant performance led them to victory.
The Jaguars (9-8) missed out on back-to-back division titles for the first time since 1998 and 1999, and their loss handed the division crown to Houston. Jacksonville’s playoff hopes were further diminished after Pittsburgh’s win on Saturday.
Trevor Lawrence, returning from a shoulder injury, made a crucial decision on fourth-and-goal at the 1 but was stopped short by Tennessee’s defense. With one final chance, Lawrence couldn’t convert a first down, effectively ending the Jaguars’ playoff bid.
The Titans (6-11) showcased their defensive strength, especially in the red zone, halting the Jaguars’ comeback attempt. Derrick Henry, celebrating his 30th birthday and potentially his last game under contract with the Titans, ran for a season-high 153 yards and a touchdown, proving pivotal in the team’s win.
The Titans’ victory also impacted the AFC playoff picture, confirming the Houston Texans as the AFC South champions and the No. 4 seed, who will host the No. 5 seed Cleveland Browns in the wild-card round. The result left Pittsburgh and Buffalo vying for the remaining playoff spots, dependent on the outcome of the Buffalo-Miami game.
For the Jaguars, the loss was a disappointing end to a season that began with promise. Lawrence, despite his efforts, was intercepted twice and Jacksonville struggled to convert on critical downs. Jaguars coach Doug Pederson and his team will reflect on what might have been, while the Titans end their season on a high note, despite missing the playoffs.
