Last meeting
In Week 7, Titans kicker Rob Bironas kicked an NFL-record eight field goals as Tennessee survived a 29-point fourth quarter rally by the Texans to hold on for a 38-36 victory.
Streaks
The Titans have won the past five matchups and lead the all-time series 9-2.
Last week
The Bengals moved the ball at ease against a Titans defense that continues to miss the presence of DT Albert Haynesworth in the middle of their defensive line. The Titans were kept out of the end zone all day in a 35-6 loss to Cincinnati. ... The Browns' last-ranked defense forced two Matt Schaub interceptions and held Houston WR Andre Johnson to a season-low 37 yards in a 27-27 win over Houston.
At stake
In many ways, these two teams are victims to the tough division they play in. However, they'll both need to turn things -- especially the Titans, who have lost three straight -- if they want to make January meaningful.
Key matchup
Texans RB Ron Dayne vs. Titans run defense. Since losing Haynesworth, the Titans have given up an average of 160 rushing yards per game and have struggled to make key defensive stops. They're hoping to have him back this week to contend with Dayne, who, since taking over for the injured Ahman Green, has averaged 96.3 yards over the last three games. The Texans are 4-1 when Dayne has more than 20 carries, which might be tough to get this week with the possible return of Green.
