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With the game 24 hours away, I figure it's about time to look at Sunday's opponent. Here's a look at the game from a writer Deep In The Heart Of Texas.
Week 17 matchup: Texans vs. Patriots by John (Die Hard?) McClain of the Houston Chronicle
You can read the rest of the column here.
Week 17 matchup: Texans vs. Patriots by John (Die Hard?) McClain of the Houston Chronicle
I gave the Texans two advantages against the Patriots.
I gave them the advantage in their passing game against New England's pass defense. The Texans have the second-ranked passing game in the NFL. I had no problem giving them the advantage.
The other one was close. It was special teams. Joe Marciano always puts special teams on the field that are among the best from top to bottom. The only thing that stands out is their punt coverage, which is second in the league. Matt Turk plays a big role in that statistic. They're not spectacular in any other area, just solid all-around.
The biggest advantage for the Patriots is going to be Tom Brady, Randy Moss and Wes Welker, the league's leading receiver, going after the Texans' secondary. If Miami's Chad Henne picked them apart in the second half, imagine what Brady will do to them, especially if Mario Williams pulls another vanishing act.
The one I hesitated giving to the Patriots was their running game against the Texans' run defense. Over the last 12 games, the Texans have allowed 85.2 yards a game. The Patriots don't have one back who stands out. It's more by committee, but they get the job done.
You can read the rest of the column here.