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Joe Rexrode and Jason Wolf recap the Titans' last regular-season game against the Jaguars. Autumn Allison / USA TODAY NETWORK-Tennessee
The 3,277-day wait is over.
Sunday's 15-10 win over Jacksonville on Sunday returns the Titans to the NFL playoffs for the first time since Jan. 10, 2009.
The Titans (9-7), fifth seed in the AFC playoffs, will play at fourth-seeded Kansas City (10-6) in the opening round at 3:35 p.m. Saturday (ABC/ESPN)
That's exactly how everyone had it planned when the season began Sept. 10, right?
Well, not really.
More: 5 observations: Marcus Mariota, Derrick Henry lead Titans into NFL playoffs
Tennessee Titans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
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Titans defensive tackle Jurrell Casey (99) celebrates in the final moments of the team's playoff-clinching win over the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) throws an autographed ball to the fans in the stands after the team's playoff-clinching win over the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans head coach Mike Mularkey smiles as he walks off the field following the team's playoff-clinching win over the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) celebrates his first interception during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
A fan doesn't seem to mind the cold during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans mascot T-Rac celebrates after the team's playoff-clinching win over the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans general manager Jon Robinson pats offensive tackle Taylor Lewan (77) on the back after the team's playoff-clinching win over the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans general manager hugs safety Kevin Byard (31) after the team's playoff-clinching win over the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) celebrates after the team's playoff-clinching win over the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) signs autographs for fans after the team's playoff-clinching win over the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Fans celebrate withTitans linebacker Avery Williamson (54) after the team's 15-10 win to clinch a playoff spot at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) celebrates with linebacker Derrick Morgan (91) after the team's win over the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) celebrates with Titans linebacker Derrick Morgan (91) after the team]s playoff-clinching win over the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Jaguars linebacker Donald Payne (52) mixes it up with Titans players after the Titans' 15-10 playoff-clinching win at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) celebrates with fans after the team's 15-10 playoff-clinching win at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) scrambles for a first down late in the fourth quarter of the team's playoff-clinching win over the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans wide receiver Eric Decker (87) and quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) celebrate the team's playoff-clilnching at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) and quarterback Matt Cassel (16) celebrate in the closing seconds of the team's playoff-clinching win at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) is congratulated by his teammates after his second interception of the game that clinched the team's win over the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) scrambles out of the pocket for a first down during the fourth quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
A fan has multiple layers to stay warm during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans tight end Delanie Walker (82) is brought down by Jaguars linebacker Telvin Smith (50) during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
A bundled-up fan watches the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Jaguars cornerback Aaron Colvin (22) breaks up a pass intended for Titans wide receiver Eric Decker (87) during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Jaguars cornerback Aaron Colvin (22) motions an incomplete pass to Titans wide receiver Eric Decker (87) during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette (27) gains yards during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Jaguars safety Tashaun Gipson (39) hangs on to bring down Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Jaguars fans celebrate with defensive end Yannick Ngakoue (91) after his touchdown during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Jaguars defensive end Yannick Ngakoue (91) during the heads for his touchdown during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) runs with the ball after his interception during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) and linebacker Jayon Brown (55) celebrate the interception by Byard during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) gains yards defended by Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey (20) during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans wide receiver Eric Decker (87) can't hang onto a pass during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Jaguars wide receiver Dede Westbrook (12) can't hang onto a pass by quarterback Blake Bortles (5) defended by Titans cornerback Tye Smith (33) during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
This Titans fan is covered in layers to beat the cold during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
A young fan is covered up to battle the cold during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans linebacker Avery Williamson (54) brings down Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette (27) during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) throws during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans defensive tackle Jurrell Casey (99) calls for the fans to get loud during the third quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) powers over Jaguars linebacker Paul Posluszny (51) during the third quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
A fan is all bundled up during the first half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans wide receiver Eric Decker (87) pulls in a catch during the third quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans defenders stop Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette (27) during the third quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) advances on a keeper during the third quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Jaguars safety Barry Church (42) brings down Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) during the third quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) gets by Jaguars safety Barry Church (42) during the third quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans place kicker Ryan Succop (4) kicks a field goal during the third quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans place kicker Ryan Succop (4) celebrates his field goal with punter Brett Kern (6) during the second half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) and linebacker Wesley Woodyard (59) celebrate the fumble recovery by linebacker Jayon Brown (55) after Jackson punched the ball loose from Jaguars wide receiver Keelan Cole (84) during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans linebacker Jayon Brown (55) comes up with the recovery after cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) punched the ball out of the hands of Jaguars wide receiver Keelan Cole (84) during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans linebacker Jayon Brown (55) celebrates his fumble recovery after cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) punched the ball out of the hands of Jaguars wide receiver Keelan Cole (84) during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) celebrates the fumble recovery by linebacker Jayon Brown (55) after Jackson punched the ball loose from Jaguars wide receiver Keelan Cole (84) during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans head coach Mike Mularkey likes what he sees on the field as running back David Fluellen (32) applauds behind him during the first half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans place kicker Ryan Succop (4) celebrates his field goal in the closing seconds of the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) scrambles with the ball during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) lands after gaining yards during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
A fan watches the game all bundled up during the first half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans place kicker Ryan Succop (4) kicks a field goal during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) breaks up a pass intended for Jaguars wide receiver Dede Westbrook (12) during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
A fan is bundled up for the Titans-Jaguars game during the first half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans running back David Fluellen (32) and tight end Phillip Supernaw (89) wrap up Jaguars running back Corey Grant (30) during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Jaguars wide receiver Allen Hurns (88) gains yards defended by Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans linebacker Derrick Morgan (91) stops Jaguars running back T.J. Yeldon (24) during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Jaguars place kicker Josh Lambo (4) makes a field goal to put the team on the board during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) hands off to Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans linebacker Jayon Brown (55) stops Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette (27) during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans linebacker Wesley Woodyard (59) can't hang onto Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette (27) during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) scores on a 66-yard run as wide receiver Rishard Matthews (18) celebrates behind him during the first half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) leaves the Jaguars behind on his way to a touchdown during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans wide receiver Rishard Matthews (18) celebrates the touchdown by running back Derrick Henry (22) during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) takes off on a 66-yard touchdown during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans wide receiver Rishard Matthews (18) congratulates running back Derrick Henry (22) on his touchdown during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) gets ready to hand off to running back Derrick Henry (22) during the first quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) gains yards during the first quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Jaguars safety Tashaun Gipson (39) can't quite hang onto Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) during the first quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Jaguars wide receiver Jaydon Mickens (85) gets by Titans linebacker Daren Bates (53) during the first quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans tight end Delanie Walker (82) is stopped by Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey (20) during the first half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) is sacked by Jaguars defensive tackle Marcell Dareus (99) during the second quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) stops Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette (27) during the first quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) stops Jaguars wide receiver Keelan Cole (84) during the first half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans safety Johnathan Cyprien (37) misses a tackle of Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette (27) during the first quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette (27) breaks a tackle by Titans safety Johnathan Cyprien (37) during the first quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Fans are bundled up against the cold during the Titans-Jaguars game at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles (5) signals to a teammate during the first quarter at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) warms up on the sideline during a timeout in the first half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
A fan deals with the cold during the Titans-Jaguars game at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) stops Jaguars wide receiver Keelan Cole (84) during the first half at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
A fan photographs the Titans as they take the field against the Jaguars before the game at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans wide receiver Eric Decker (87) makes a catch before the start of the game against the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
The Titans receivers huddle before the start of the game against the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) warms up before the game at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) warms up before the game at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans tight end Delanie Walker (82) warms up before the game against the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Steven Dalton, of Nashville, warms his face with a hand-warmer before the game between the Titans and the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) warms up before the start of the game at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
The Titans warm up before the start of the game at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
The Titans huddle before the start of the game against the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Johnny "Bonfire" Goodman sports blu facial hair before the game between the Titans and the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans tight end Delanie Walker (82) warms up before the game against the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Two fans are bundled up before the start of the game against the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Titans place kicker Ryan Succop (4) warms up before the game at Nissan Stadium Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 in Nashville, Tenn.
George Walker IV / Tennessean.com
Fans arrive before the game between the Titans and the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
The Titans ÒBlue CrewÓ drum line warms up before the game between the Titans and the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Titans defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau signs autographs before the game between the Titans and the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Fans keep warm under a heater before the game between the Titans and the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
Fans play games before the game between the Titans and the Jaguars at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017.
Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com
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![Titans defensive tackle Jurrell Casey (99) celebrates]()
1 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) throws an autographed]()
2 of 106![Titans head coach Mike Mularkey smiles as he walks]()
3 of 106![Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) celebrates his first]()
4 of 106![A fan doesn't seem to mind the cold during the second]()
5 of 106![Titans mascot T-Rac celebrates after the team's playoff-clinching]()
6 of 106![Titans general manager Jon Robinson pats offensive]()
7 of 106![Titans general manager hugs safety Kevin Byard (31)]()
8 of 106![Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) celebrates after the]()
9 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) signs autographs]()
10 of 106![Fans celebrate withTitans linebacker Avery Williamson]()
11 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) celebrates with]()
12 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) celebrates with]()
13 of 106![Jaguars linebacker Donald Payne (52) mixes it up with]()
14 of 106![Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) celebrates with fans]()
15 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) scrambles for]()
16 of 106![Titans wide receiver Eric Decker (87) and quarterback]()
17 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) and quarterback]()
18 of 106![Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) is congratulated by]()
19 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) scrambles out]()
20 of 106![A fan has multiple layers to stay warm during the second]()
21 of 106![Titans tight end Delanie Walker (82) is brought down]()
22 of 106![A bundled-up fan watches the second half at Nissan]()
23 of 106![Jaguars cornerback Aaron Colvin (22) breaks up a pass]()
24 of 106![Jaguars cornerback Aaron Colvin (22) motions an incomplete]()
25 of 106![Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette (27) gains yards]()
26 of 106![Jaguars safety Tashaun Gipson (39) hangs on to bring]()
27 of 106![Jaguars fans celebrate with defensive end Yannick Ngakoue]()
28 of 106![Jaguars defensive end Yannick Ngakoue (91) during the]()
29 of 106![Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) runs with the ball after]()
30 of 106![Titans safety Kevin Byard (31) and linebacker Jayon]()
31 of 106![Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) gains yards]()
32 of 106![Titans wide receiver Eric Decker (87) can't hang onto]()
33 of 106![Jaguars wide receiver Dede Westbrook (12) can't hang]()
34 of 106![This Titans fan is covered in layers to beat the cold]()
35 of 106![A young fan is covered up to battle the cold during]()
36 of 106![Titans linebacker Avery Williamson (54) brings down]()
37 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) throws during]()
38 of 106![Titans defensive tackle Jurrell Casey (99) calls for]()
39 of 106![Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) powers over]()
40 of 106![A fan is all bundled up during the first half at Nissan]()
41 of 106![Titans wide receiver Eric Decker (87) pulls in a catch]()
42 of 106![Titans defenders stop Jaguars running back Leonard]()
43 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) advances on a]()
44 of 106![Jaguars safety Barry Church (42) brings down Titans]()
45 of 106![Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) gets by Jaguars]()
46 of 106![Titans place kicker Ryan Succop (4) kicks a field goal]()
47 of 106![Titans place kicker Ryan Succop (4) celebrates his]()
48 of 106![Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) and linebacker]()
49 of 106![Titans linebacker Jayon Brown (55) comes up with the]()
50 of 106![Titans linebacker Jayon Brown (55) celebrates his fumble]()
51 of 106![Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) celebrates the]()
52 of 106![Titans head coach Mike Mularkey likes what he sees]()
53 of 106![Titans place kicker Ryan Succop (4) celebrates his]()
54 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) scrambles with]()
55 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) lands after gaining]()
56 of 106![A fan watches the game all bundled up during the first]()
57 of 106![Titans place kicker Ryan Succop (4) kicks a field goal]()
58 of 106![Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) breaks up a]()
59 of 106![A fan is bundled up for the Titans-Jaguars game during]()
60 of 106![Titans running back David Fluellen (32) and tight end]()
61 of 106![Jaguars wide receiver Allen Hurns (88) gains yards]()
62 of 106![Titans linebacker Derrick Morgan (91) stops Jaguars]()
63 of 106![Jaguars place kicker Josh Lambo (4) makes a field goal]()
64 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) hands off to]()
65 of 106![Titans linebacker Jayon Brown (55) stops Jaguars running]()
66 of 106![Titans linebacker Wesley Woodyard (59) can't hang onto]()
67 of 106![Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) scores on a]()
68 of 106![Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) leaves the Jaguars]()
69 of 106![Titans wide receiver Rishard Matthews (18) celebrates]()
70 of 106![Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) takes off on]()
71 of 106![Titans wide receiver Rishard Matthews (18) congratulates]()
72 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) gets ready to]()
73 of 106![Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) gains yards]()
74 of 106![Jaguars safety Tashaun Gipson (39) can't quite hang]()
75 of 106![Jaguars wide receiver Jaydon Mickens (85) gets by Titans]()
76 of 106![Titans tight end Delanie Walker (82) is stopped by]()
77 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) is sacked by]()
78 of 106![Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) stops Jaguars]()
79 of 106![Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) stops Jaguars]()
80 of 106![Titans safety Johnathan Cyprien (37) misses a tackle]()
81 of 106![Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette (27) breaks]()
82 of 106![Fans are bundled up against the cold during the Titans-Jaguars]()
83 of 106![Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles (5) signals to a]()
84 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) warms up on the]()
85 of 106![A fan deals with the cold during the Titans-Jaguars]()
86 of 106![Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) stops Jaguars]()
87 of 106![A fan photographs the Titans as they take the field]()
88 of 106![Titans wide receiver Eric Decker (87) makes a catch]()
89 of 106![The Titans receivers huddle before the start of the]()
90 of 106![Titans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (25) warms up before]()
91 of 106![Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) warms up before]()
92 of 106![Titans tight end Delanie Walker (82) warms up before]()
93 of 106![Steven Dalton, of Nashville, warms his face with a]()
94 of 106![Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) warms up before]()
95 of 106![The Titans warm up before the start of the game at]()
96 of 106![The Titans huddle before the start of the game against]()
97 of 106![Johnny "Bonfire" Goodman sports blu facial hair before]()
98 of 106![Titans tight end Delanie Walker (82) warms up before]()
99 of 106![Two fans are bundled up before the start of the game]()
100 of 106![Titans place kicker Ryan Succop (4) warms up before]()
101 of 106![Fans arrive before the game between the Titans and]()
102 of 106![The Titans ÒBlue CrewÓ drum line warms up before the]()
103 of 106![Titans defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau signs autographs]()
104 of 106![Fans keep warm under a heater before the game between]()
105 of 106![Fans play games before the game between the Titans]()
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Although many NFL pundits picked the Titans to advance to the playoffs this season, few would have figured last summer that they would need to overcome a late three-game losing streak and rely on the running of their quarterback and the defensive play of their second-year free safety to win the season finale to grab the berth.
But that's exactly what the Titans, playing in the coldest NFL game in Nissan Stadium history (23 degrees at kickoff), needed.
Former MTSU standout Kevin Byard grabbed his second interception of the game with 10 seconds left to seal the win.
"This isn't the end. This is just the next step in our chapter," Mariota said. "It's nice to enjoy this, but it's just a start."
Mariota had a subpar passing game (12-of-21 for 134 yards) but had a key run late in the game. With the Titans trying to run out the clock, Mariota scrambled for 13 yards on a third-and-5 with 2:13 remaining.
"I wanted to make a play for the guys," Mariota said of his run, which capped a team-high 60-yard rushing day.
His running was needed as the Jaguars keyed on running back Derrick Henry (51 yards on 28 carries). The Titans were missing running back DeMarco Murray, who was out with a knee injury.
And now they are off to play the Chiefs in the wild-card weekend. And as we know, anything can happen once you enter the tournament.
"You like to watch guys have success, and that's the gratifying part," coach Mike Mularkey said, "because I've been part of this team when we weren't. They've worked to get to this point, and I'm glad they were rewarded for it today."
Reach Dave Ammenheuser at 615-259-8352 and on Twitter @NashSportsEd.
WILD-CARD WEEKEND
Saturday, Jan. 6
Titans at Kansas City Chiefs, 3:35 p.m. (ESPN/ABC)
Atlanta Falcons at Los Angeles Rams, 7:15 p.m. (NBC)
Sunday, Jan. 7
Buffalo Bills at Jacksonville Jaguars, noon (CBS)
Carolina Panthers at New Orleans Saints, 3:40 p.m. (FOX)