NFL Thursday night: One-game legend Will Levis brings show to prime time. Our Titans-Steelers pick
NFL WEEK 9
GREG COTE’S THURSDAY PICK
TITANS (3-4) at STEELERS (4-3)
Line: PIT by 2 1/2.
Cote’s pick: PIT, 20-17.
TV: 8:15 p.m., Prime Video.
Tennessee a trendy upset pick, but I don’t concur. Here’s why. Pittsburgh is 4-0 in one-score games and this figures as another, low on the total. Steelers also are on a 5-0 run in prime time, and this will be a tough (and cold) venue to work for Titans rookie QB Will Levis, on a short week, against a defense that is better at home and has had film of the rookie to prepare. Levis was great last week in his pro debut — third ever to pass for four TDs in first NFL start. He’s a virtual one-game legend! But he will find it tougher here in a likely second start, with Ryan Tannehill (ankle) trending doubtful. Steelers also could have back stalwart run-stopper Cam Heyward for first time since Week 1 and just in time if Tenners’ game plan goes low with RB Derrick Henry. Pitt QB Kenny Pickett (ribs) is questionable but says he expects to play. In what feels like a pick-’em game, I tend to lean venue especially when it’s a prime time kickoff and the weather may be a further edge for the homies.
[Note: Betting line courtesy Caesars Sportsbook as of midday Wednesday. Picks for remainder of Week 9 games will appear online Thursday afternoon and in print Friday] .
