NFL Playoffs

TENNESSEE (13-4)

at NEW ENGLAND (14-2)

When: Saturday, 5:15 p.m., Channel 2.

Line: Patriots by 6.

Story line: New England has won 12 consecutive games, starting with a 38-30 victory over Tennessee on Oct. 5. The Patriots have been winning with an intimidating defense and efficient offense, led by quarterback Tom Brady. Tennessee is coming off a 20-17 victory over Baltimore. This will be a game between two of the NFL’s top defenses against the run.

Key matchups: Tennessee’s Justin Hartwig vs. New England’s Ted Washington: As the Titan center, Hartwig has the difficult job of blocking Washington, the heavy force behind the Patriots’ 3-4 defense. Tennessee’s Derrick Mason vs. New England’s Ty Law: Mason had a quiet game last week, but he’s still the Titans’ top receiver, while Law is considered one of the best cornerbacks in the game. New England’s Matt Light vs. Tennessee’s Jevon Kearse: Light, the left tackle, has to keep Kearse away from Brady.

When the Titans have the ball: Veteran Eddie George and rookie Chris Brown need to be productive to help quarterback Steve McNair, who passed for nearly 400 yards against the Patriots during the regular season. McNair is at his best when he uses a variety of receivers. Tight end Frank Wycheck will be an important target.

When the Patriots have the ball: Although they did not have a 1,000-yard rusher, the Patriots rushed for 1,607 yards. The key for the Patriot offense is taking care of the football; it had only five turnovers at home during the regular season. Brady loves to spread the ball around, with David Givens emerging as his big-play receiver.

Injuries: TENNESSEE -- questionable: LB Ken Amato (ankle/hamstring); WR Eddie Berlin (concussion); LB Rocky Calmus (leg); RB Eddie George (shoulder/ankle); RB Robert Holcombe (hamstring); QB Steve McNair (ankle/calf); CB Samari Rolle (concussion); WR Jake Schifino (leg). NEW ENGLAND -- No injuries to report.

HOW THEY MATCH UP

*--* Tenn. CATEGORY N.E. 27.2 (5) Points 21.8 (12) 20.2 (13) Points allowed 14.9 (1) 242.4 (5) Passing offense 214.5 (9) 101.4 (26) Rushing offense 100.4 (27) 343.8 (8) Total offense 314.9 (17) 225.4 (30) Passing defense 202.0 (15) 80.9 (1) Rushing defense 89.6 (4) 306.3 (12) Total defense 291.6 (7) 21 (4) Turnovers 24 (8)

*--*

Note: League rank in parentheses

Bottom line: McNair, less than 100% because of injuries, will need his mobility to scramble against the Patriots, who should be more than ready after a week off. Look for New England to advance in a tight game.