The Titans were still alive in the playoff picture when they left the field in Houston with a 23-22 win over the Texans. Later developments and tiebreakers knocked them out despite a 9-7 record.

Stars of the Game
Offense: Donnie Avery
The seldom used speedster had a big day. His first catch as a Titan was a touchdown, and he added two more catches for a total for 45 yards.

Defense: Jurrell Casey
The defensive tackle had two sacks, two tackles for loss and 2 QB hurries.

Special Teams: Brett Kern
If you want to see examples of the "coffin corner kick," then watch the replay of this game. Kern pinned the Texans in the shadow of their goal posts all day.

Difference Maker: Nate Washington His 92 receiving yards gave him his first 1,000 yard season in his career.

Unsung Hero: Rob Bironas
Last week Bironas set an NFL record when he hit a 40-plus yard field goal in the ninth consecutive game. He extended it to ten games Sunday.

Stats of the Game
4 Punts by Kern downed inside the 20-yard line (out of six total)
9 Yards, average advantage in starting field position by the Titans
1 Number of Kern's punts that were returned


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-- CHARLIY NASH
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