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NFL Week 16 predictions, expert picks: Tennessee Titans vs Indianapolis Colts

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NFL Week 16 predictions, expert picks: Tennessee Titans vs Indianapolis Colts


The Indianapolis Colts host the Tennessee Titans in NFL Week 16 action as the Colts cling to slim AFC playoff hopes.

Both teams are coming off dispiriting losses. The Colts (6-8) made two huge blunders (here, here) in a disastrous second half against the Denver Broncos. The Titans (3-11) switched quarterbacks as they lost to the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Colts beat the Titans 20-17 in Week 6, but each team’s quarterback will be different this time around.

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Want more Colts coverage? Nate Atkins, Joel A. Erickson and Gregg Doyel track the team all season, and sign up for IndyStar’s Colts newsletter.

NFL Week 16 expert picks, predictions: Indianapolis Colts vs Tennessee Titans

Nate Atkins, IndyStar: Titans 20-17

“The Colts are coming off a heartbreaking loss to the Broncos that erased a clear lane to make the playoffs. That emotional toll will show up on Sunday in a subdued home atmosphere as the Titans come out swinging to prove they’re not the soft team they’ve been accused of lately.”

Joel A. Erickson, IndyStar: Colts 20-16

“Tennessee’s not as much of a wild card with Will Levis on the bench, but the Titans still have one of the NFL’s worst offenses with Mason Rudolph at the helm. The Colts have generally taken care of bad teams this season outside of cursed locations like Jacksonville.”

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Gregg Doyel, IndyStar: Colts, no problem

“Colts aren’t very good, but the Titans are a whole other level of bad. Colts win. Won’t be close.”

Pete Prisco, CBS Sports: Colts 24-17

“The Colts are alive in the playoff race − barely. The Titans are done and might be making a quarterback change. The Colts did some good things in losing to the Broncos last week in a game they should have won. They bounce back here. Colts take it.”

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Brent Sobleski, Bleacher Report: Titans 22-21

“The well-coached and feisty team that head coach Shane Steichen fielded last season has devolved to the point where a series of blunders now defines its current status. None of this even includes the continuing development of quarterback Anthony Richardson, whose ups and downs are so drastic that a bouncing bumble can be overwhelmed.”

Bill Bender, Sporting News: Colts 21-18

“These teams combined for 11 turnovers last week. Will Levis committed four turnovers in Week 15, and Mason Rudolph was not much better. The Colts committed five turnovers in their loss to Denver. Anthony Richardson had two interceptions. This one literally comes down to who protects the football, and it feels like a one-score game either way.”

Vic Tafur, The Athletic: Titans cover the spread

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“The Colts were cruising to a victory last week when Jonathan Taylor dropped the ball before scoring a touchdown, and it was the first of a series of unforced errors. Their playoff chances took a big hit with the loss, though it would have been hard to make it the way Anthony Richardson is throwing the ball. Story time: The stats dudes started charting inaccurate throws in 2000. There have been 777 quarterbacks who have thrown at least 250 passes in a season. At 17.7 percent, Richardson comes in at No. 776. But he will be playing Sunday. The Titans’ Levis will not, being benched Wednesday for Mason Rudolph. Does it matter? Nah. The Titans will be able to run the ball better than the Colts, when you look at the defenses, and would have lost by a field goal and covered with Levis, too.”

Gerry Dulac, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Colts 26-16

“The Colts need more help than a cat in a roomful of rocking chairs to make the postseason, but they will continue to cling to those hopes as long as St. Elmo continues to make the best shrimp cocktail. By the way, do you need reminded the Colts beat the Steelers earlier this season?”

Mike Florio, Pro Football Talk: Titans 24-21

“The air went out of Indy’s balloons when Jonathan Taylor dropped the ball short of the goal line. Throw in Tennessee coach Brian Callahan’s epic rant in response to a question about the team being soft, and it’s just enough for the Titans to get another win.”

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Dan Parr, NFL.com: Colts 24-21

“Here we have two teams that bungled their way to a combined 11 turnovers in their double-digit defeats last week. Sunday’s meeting will probably be at least a little less messy because the Titans made a change at quarterback − benching the giveaway-plagued Will Levis for Mason Rudolph − and I don’t think Jonathan Taylor will ever let go of the ball like he did last week. The unfortunate thing for Tennessee fans is they have already seen this movie and the ending still left a lot to be desired. When Rudolph started three contests earlier this season, he threw at least one INT in each outing and the Titans averaged 14.7 points per game, which is 4.4 points fewer than they average in Levis’ starts. Who will play the cleaner game? I don’t have much confidence that Anthony Richardson is up to the challenge, with four picks in his last two games, but Indianapolis has taken care of business against sub-.500 teams (5-1) and the defense allowed a season-low 3.2 yards per play to go along with three INTs last week. I’m grasping at straws and taking the home team.”

Colts-Titans betting odds

via BetMGM

Favorite: Colts by 3.5 points

Colts are 8-6 against the spread, failing to cover in five of their past six games; the Titans are 2-12 ATS.

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Over/under: 42.5 total points

Six Colts games have gone over, seven under, and last weekend’s game was a push; eight Titans games have gone over, six under (three of the last four have gone over).

Moneyline: Colts -190, Titans +155

When do the Colts play the Titans in NFL Week 16?

1 p.m. ET Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis

How to watch Colts vs Titans in NFL Week 16

CBS, with Tom McCarthy (play-by-play), and Ross Tucker and Jay Feely (analysis).

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How to stream, watch Titans-Colts game for NFL Week 16

The Colts-Broncos matchup will stream on Paramount+ at 1 p.m. ET Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024. The app is available in the Apple App Store or on Google Play. Fans can also download NFL+ in the Apple App Store or on Google Play.

How to listen to NFL Week 16 Titans-Colts game on radio, streaming

Radio: 93.5, 97.1, 107.5 FM in Indianapolis, with Matt Taylor (play-by-play), Rick Venturi (analysis) and Larra Overton (sideline reporting)

Streaming: SiriusXM Channels 231 and 813

What a deal!: Watch Colts-Titans on Fubo

Colts-Titans common opponents

The Colts (4-7) beat the Chicago Bears, Miami Dolphins, New York Jets and New England Patriots, and have lost to the Houston Texans twice, as well as the Jacksonville Jaguars, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Detroit Lions and Buffalo Bills.

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The Titans (3-7) beat the Dolphins, Patriots and Texans, and have lost to the Bears, Jets, Packers, Bills, Lions, Vikings and Jaguars.

Colts-Titans at Lucas Oil Stadium

At Lucas Oil Stadium: Tickets start at $23 on StubHub

Colts 2024 schedule

all times ET

Sept. 8: Texans 29, Colts 27

Sept. 15: Packers 16, Colts 10

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Sept. 22: Colts 21, Bears 16

Sept. 29: Colts 27, Steelers 24

Oct. 6: Jaguars 37, Colts 34

Oct. 13: Colts 20, Titans 17

Oct. 20: Colts 16, Dolphins 10

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Oct. 27: Texans 23, Colts 20

Nov. 3: Vikings 21, Colts 13

Nov. 10: Bills 30, Colts 20

Nov. 17: Colts 28, Jets 27

Nov. 24: Lions 24, Colts 6

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Dec. 1: Colts 25, Patriots 24

Dec. 15: Broncos 31, Colts 13

Dec. 22: vs. Tennessee, 1 p.m., CBS

Dec. 29: at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m., Fox

Jan. 5: vs. Jacksonville, TBD

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Indianapolis Sports Calendar 2026: Final Four, Indy 500 & More

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Indianapolis Sports Calendar 2026: Final Four, Indy 500 & More


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Indianapolis Sports Calendar 2026: Final Four, Indy 500 & More

Following a banner year in 2025, Indianapolis has solidified its reputation as a premier destination for major sporting events.

The city demonstrated exceptional capacity for hosting diverse competitions, from professional leagues to collegiate championships, setting a high standard for hospitality and logistical execution.

As the calendar turns to 2026, the “Circle City” is not slowing down; instead, it is gearing up for another year of world-class athletic showcases.

The success of 2025 was not accidental.

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It was the result of decades of strategic planning that transformed Indianapolis into a hub built specifically for large-scale events.

The city’s compact downtown, connected by skywalks and anchored by top-tier venues like Lucas Oil Stadium and Gainbridge Fieldhouse, allows fans to navigate easily between hotels, restaurants, and arenas.

In 2025, the city hosted a series of high-profile events that brought significant economic impact and cultural vibrancy to the region.

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Local businesses, from Black-owned restaurants on Indiana Avenue to downtown hotels, thrived on the influx of visitors.

The seamless execution of these events proved once again that Indianapolis is capable of managing the complex infrastructure required for national and international sports.

Looking ahead, 2026 promises to elevate this legacy further. With a calendar featuring the NCAA Men’s Final Four, the historic Indianapolis 500, and the return of the NFL Scouting Combine, the city is prepared to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors.

These events are more than just games; they are community gatherings that celebrate competition, diversity, and excellence.

Take a look below at Indianapolis Sports Calendar 2026: Final Four, Indy 500 & More.

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RELATED | Large Sporting Events Happening In Indianapolis In 2025

RELATED | Top 15 Indiana Sports Moments Of 2025

February 23 – March 2: NFL Scouting Combine

2025 NFL Scouting Combine
Source: Stacy Revere / Getty

The NFL universe descends on Lucas Oil Stadium as top college prospects showcase their skills for professional scouts, coaches, and general managers.

This annual event remains a staple of the Indianapolis sports calendar.

March 2: WWE Monday Night RAW

Monday Night RAW
Source: WWE / Getty

Gainbridge Fieldhouse will host the drama and athleticism of the WWE, bringing global superstars to the city for a night of high-energy entertainment.

March 4–8: Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament

Indiana v Michigan
Source: Aaron J. Thornton / Getty

Gainbridge Fieldhouse welcomes the best women’s teams from the Big Ten Conference.

As women’s basketball continues to surge in popularity, this tournament is expected to draw significant crowds.

March 8–10: Horizon League Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament

COLLEGE BASKETBALL: MAR 12 Horizon League Championship - Oakland vs Milwaukee
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

The action shifts to the Corteva Coliseum at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, where the Horizon League crowns its champions and determines automatic bids to the NCAA tournament.

March 18–21: NCAA DIII Men’s and Women’s Swimming Championships

2025 NCAA Division I Men's Swimming and Diving Championships
Source: Mollie Handkins / Getty

The IU Natatorium at IU Indianapolis, known as one of the fastest pools in the world, will host elite swimmers competing for national titles.

April: The Road to the Championship

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April marks the climax of the college basketball season, with Indianapolis serving as the epicenter of the sport.

April 2 & 5: National Invitation Tournament (NIT) Semifinals and Championship

Indiana State v Seton Hall
Source: Mitchell Layton / Getty

Hinkle Fieldhouse will host the semifinals, followed by the championship game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, showcasing top-tier programs battling for the historic NIT title.

April 3: College Slam Dunk & 3-Point Championships

Marquette v Butler
Source: Mitchell Layton / Getty

Hinkle Fieldhouse hosts this fan-favorite event, featuring the nation’s top shooters and high-flyers in a showcase of individual skill.

April 4 & 6: NCAA Men’s Final Four and National Championship

Baylor v Gonzaga
Source: Andy Lyons / Getty

The eyes of the sports world will turn to Lucas Oil Stadium for the conclusion of March Madness.

Hosting the Final Four is a prestigious honor that underscores Indianapolis’s elite status in the sports world.

April 5: NCAA DII & DIII Men’s Basketball National Championships

Kon Knueppel leads Wisconsin Lutheran to WIAA State Final
Source: NurPhoto / Getty

In a celebration of collegiate athletics across all levels, Gainbridge Fieldhouse will host the title games for both Division II and Division III men’s basketball on the same day.

Spring and Summer: Racing and Golf

As the weather warms, the focus shifts from the court to the track and the links.

May 9: Sonsio Grand Prix

AUTO: MAY 10 INDYCAR Sonsio Grand Prix
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

The month of May kicks off at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway with the Sonsio Grand Prix, setting the stage for the weeks of racing ahead.

May 24: 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500

109th Running Of The Indianapolis 500 - Practice and Previews
Source: Justin Casterline / Getty

The “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” returns to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

This iconic event is a cultural touchstone, drawing hundreds of thousands of fans for a day of speed and tradition.

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Big Ten Football Media Days
Source: Kirby Lee / Getty

Coaches and players from the expanded Big Ten conference gather to preview the upcoming college football season, bringing media attention from across the country.

July 26: Brickyard 400

AUTO: JUN 19 Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

NASCAR returns to the oval at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for one of the most prestigious races on the Cup Series schedule.

August 20–23: LIV Golf Indianapolis

GOLF: AUG 17 LIV Golf Indianapolis
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

The Club at Chatham Hills will host LIV Golf, bringing many of the world’s top professional golfers to the area for this unique team-based competition.

Fall and Winter: Football Focus

The year concludes with major football events that celebrate both heritage and championships.

September 2–7: NHRA U.S. Nationals

AUTO: NOV 04 Ford Performance NHRA Nationals
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

Known as “The Big Go,” this drag racing event at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park is the most prestigious drag race in the world.

NFL: JUN 10 Lucas Oil Stadium
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

Lucas Oil Stadium hosts the Circle City Classic, a celebration of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

This event is a cultural highlight, featuring not only the game but also the renowned battle of the bands, a parade, and community festivities.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL: DEC 02 Big Ten Championship Game - Michigan vs Iowa
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

The college football regular season culminates at Lucas Oil Stadium, where the Big Ten champion is crowned, often with College Football Playoff implications on the line.

Indianapolis approaches 2026 with a proven playbook.

For residents and visitors alike, the 2026 schedule offers opportunities to witness history and participate in world-class experiences.

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Whether it is the roar of the engines at the Speedway, the buzzer-beaters of the Final Four, or the pageantry of the Circle City Classic, Indianapolis is ready to deliver another magnificent year in sports.



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How frequent are 60-degree days in January for Indianapolis?

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How frequent are 60-degree days in January for Indianapolis?


INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Indianapolis will challenge 60 degrees multiple times to close this week. How frequent are 60-degree days in the month of January?

Over the last 5 years, Indianapolis has hit 60 degrees in January only twice. Bloomington did it four times in this same stretch.

Our last time hitting the 60-degree threshold in this month was in January 2023 in Indy. Temperature records for the city have been kept since 1872. On average, Indianapolis has around one day of making it to 60 degrees in January since record keeping began.

1880 is the year with the most January 60 degrees or higher days on record at 8 days. In 2017, Indianapolis had 4 days make it to the threshold. This is the last time we had multiple days in the 60s in January.

For the latest 7-day forecast, visit our weather blog by clicking here.

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Between Springfield And Indianapolis Is Illinois’ Cozy City With A Buzzing Main Street – Islands

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Between Springfield And Indianapolis Is Illinois’ Cozy City With A Buzzing Main Street – Islands






Resting between the United States’s pulsing coasts and among its inland cities-du-jour (lookin’ at you, Austin, Texas), lies an embarrassment of bite-sized riches. Small, intimate locales that offer a counterweight to New York City’s megawatt pulse, or San Francisco’s erudite cool. Places like Monticello, a cozy Illinois city with a lively Main Street that may be the exact opposite of the Instagram-worthy destinations drawing masses of visitors. Sandwiched between Springfield and Indianapolis, the small city of about 6,000 instead offers a big dose of small-town charm and humility.

Monticello holds an underappreciated place in history. Abraham Lincoln, still a young lawyer, spent time in the local Tenbrook Hotel as he traveled the Eighth Judicial Circuit, cutting his teeth as an aspiring legal mind. He also had a knack for turning social events inside out. One infamous scene involved Honest Abe persuading children to heat an inflated pig’s bladder in a fireplace. The ensuing explosion sent hot coals all over the room, with Lincoln setting a broom on fire trying to clean up the mess.

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You won’t find any bouncy pig bladders or flaming brooms, but his time in the area is commemorated with “Looking for Lincoln” plaques scattered at places he frequented during his time there and the rest of Illinois. Monticello gladly embraces its history, offering a perfect counterbalance to Urbana-Champaign, a trendy college town with thriving arts and vibrant culture that’s 30 minutes away. It’s an idyllic weekend getaway for travelers tired of slapping hashtags on everything.

Check out Main Street, dine, and ride the rails

The cozy city offers a Baby Bear’s porridge version of a big-ticket destination: not so overwhelming that the average traveler burns out from the heat, yet also not so chill that it leaves visitors twiddling their thumbs. The town’s downtown area, which orbits around Main Street, gives visitors a chance to see the small city’s best offerings and spend a little cash. There’s No Place Like Home, just off Washington Street, has a delightful collection of antiques, jewelry, and upcycled tchotchkes that make splurging a guilt-free exercise. Mary, Maude & Me, an antique store just two blocks away in a charming little brick house, has a similarly eclectic, well-curated inventory of vintage wares. Next, it’s time to chug along to the town’s biggest draw.

Any visit must include a stop at the Monitcello Railway Museum. Its weekend train rides offer a time portal back to an era when rails and steam engines helped small towns like Monticello expand. Bookended by two depots, the museum’s dozens of historic trains reward passengers with a sense they’re on the set of a “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.” Afterward, your stomach will likely grumble. Thankfully, Monticello offers plenty of dining options.

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The smattering of small eateries covers a wide breadth of humble food options, sans white tablecloths. Hankering for some Mexican? Casa Real and Las Marias have you covered. Those in more of a lunch pail and hard hat mood can hit the Brown Bag Deli. Its mix of wraps, sandwiches, and full-on meals will satiate exactly the ravenous hunger one feels after spending time on a railroad.

The ins and outs of visiting Monticello

No matter where you’re traveling from, you’ll need a car to reach the city. Despite its proximity to several larger metropolises, Monticello’s closest airport is the University of Illinois Willard Airport, a comparatively small hub that often requires a transfer at Chicago O’Hare to reach. The closest major transit hub, Indianapolis International Airport, unfortunately, is two hours away. The drive in, however, offers plenty of worthwhile pit stops. About halfway between the airport and Monticello, you’ll find Danville, an underrated Illinois city that’s a peaceful lakeside retreat.

Monticello’s diminutive size limits your available accommodations. A single chain hotel and a smaller inn are the only available options, costing between $75 and $200. Decatur, itself an underrated Midwest gem with trails, public art, and a zoo, sits about half an hour away and offers some more places to overnight.

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While there’s no wrong time to visit Monticello, the muggy summers and chilly winters mean the weather’s most pleasant during the shoulder season. If you’re in town between June and October, include a stop at the city’s farmers’ market. Local vendors offer everything from baked goods to flowers, along with the usual smattering of fresh produce. No inflated pig bladders, though.





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