A Rollercoaster Week for the Texans: Can They Rise to the Occasion?
The Houston Texans are in the thick of a whirlwind schedule, facing their third game in just 11 days, including a Christmas Day showdown against another AFC powerhouse. With the playoffs looming, this game against the Baltimore Ravens could be their final chance to establish momentum and prove their mettle as a force to be reckoned with. But can they rise to the challenge? Let’s break it down with some key storylines, intriguing matchups, and predictions.
Texans’ Tough Task: Slowing Baltimore’s Explosive Offense
Facing Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens’ offense is like trying to tame a storm. Add Derrick Henry—one of the NFL’s most dominant running backs—to the mix, and it feels almost unfair. Together, they’re putting up video game numbers, making Baltimore one of the most dynamic offenses in the league.
-
Derrick Henry’s Impact:
Henry is second in the league with 1,636 rushing yards, tied for the most rushing touchdowns (13), and averages an incredible 5.9 yards per carry. -
Lamar Jackson’s MVP Campaign:
Jackson is having a career year with 3,787 passing yards, 37 touchdowns, and only four interceptions, all while maintaining a 120.6 passer rating. Let’s not forget his 765 rushing yards and three rushing TDs. As Texans coach DeMeco Ryans aptly put it, “He’s definitely the MVP in my mind.”
So, how do the Texans counter this juggernaut? The answer lies in disciplined defense. Houston must stifle Henry at the line of scrimmage before he gains momentum. In their two meetings last season, they held Henry to just 51 yards on 30 carries, thanks in large part to linebacker Christian Harris. For Jackson, keeping him contained in the pocket and limiting his ability to extend plays will be critical.
Battle of Strengths: Texans’ Rushing Attack vs. Ravens’ Elite Run Defense
If there’s one area where Baltimore has remained consistently dominant, it’s their run defense, which ranks No. 1 in the league. Opponents are managing just 83.1 rushing yards per game against them.
This presents a significant challenge for the Texans, whose offensive identity this season revolves around running the football. Without standout receiver Tank Dell, the Texans have leaned heavily on Joe Mixon. However, Mixon has struggled recently, breaking the 100-yard mark only once in his last four games. Houston has gone 2-2 in that span, underlining how vital their ground game is to their success.
For the Texans to find their footing, their offensive line, tight ends, and receivers need to step up in the blocking department. It’s a classic “strength vs. strength” matchup that will likely define the game.
Who Will Step Up in the Passing Game?
The Texans’ passing attack has taken a hit with Tank Dell out for the season due to a knee injury, and newly acquired Diontae Johnson isn’t ready to suit up yet. While Nico Collins remains a reliable target, Houston needs others to elevate their game.
-
John Metchie III:
Returning from a shoulder injury, Metchie has the potential to shine. His standout performance this season came against the Lions, where he had five catches for 74 yards and a touchdown. -
Dalton Schultz:
The tight end has quietly become a critical contributor, with 48 receptions and 482 yards on the year. His red-zone presence will be pivotal. -
Ravens’ Defensive Weakness:
Despite their prowess against the run, Baltimore has struggled against the pass, ranking among the worst in the league. This opens up opportunities for quarterback C.J. Stroud to exploit mismatches.
A Nickel Adjustment and a Big Challenge for the Texans’ Defense
One of the more intriguing changes for Houston is cornerback Kamari Lassiter moving from outside corner to nickel. This role plays to Lassiter’s strengths, and he’ll need to be at his best against Ravens receiver Zay Flowers.
- Zay Flowers’ Stellar Season:
Flowers has been a revelation for Baltimore, leading the team with 71 catches and 1,016 yards. Often lining up in the slot, he’ll provide a stern test for Lassiter, who is stepping into the nickel position for the first time in a while.
With Lassiter shifting roles, Jeff Okudah takes over at outside corner. While Okudah has had his ups and downs, he’ll need to deliver a solid performance against a high-powered Ravens offense.
Short Rest and Travel: Who Has the Edge?
Both teams are playing their third game in 11 days, a brutal stretch by any standard. However, the Texans might have a slight advantage here. Being the home team means less disruption to their routine, while the Ravens have to deal with travel logistics.
The importance of rest (or the lack thereof) was evident earlier this season when the Texans traveled to New York on short rest and looked out of sync against the Jets. If history is any indication, Baltimore’s travel fatigue could play into Houston’s hands.
Prediction: Can the Texans Pull Off an Upset?
This game has all the makings of a close battle. C.J. Stroud is poised to have a strong outing, and the Texans’ defense will undoubtedly bring their A-game. But the combination of Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry might prove too much to handle.
- Final Score: Ravens 27, Texans 23
- Season Record: 10-5
While a victory for Houston isn’t out of the question, Baltimore’s offensive firepower gives them the edge in what should be an exciting and competitive matchup.
Login