The Houston Texans have started off the 2024 season 4-1, following a tough victory over the Buffalo Bills this past Sunday. As has been the case for most of this campaign, head coach Demeco Ryans‘ squad seemed to make the big plays when they had. That included another Pro Bowl-type performance from quarterback CJ Stroud. The second-year passer threw for 331 yards, with one touchdown and one interception apiece. But in the end, the leg of Ka’imi Fairburn saved the day, as he kicked the 59-yard game-winning field goal.
After that hard-fought victory, the Texans will travel to New England to take on the Patriots (1-4). At first glance, it looks as if Houston should win walking away. However, many factors could lead to an upset at Gillette Stadium this weekend, and this could be viewed as a ‘trap game’ for the Texans.
Could the Texans Suffer an Upset Against the Patriots?
Texans Must Establish the Running Game
Houston’s offense centers around their aerial attack. They head into Week 5 ranked as the third-highest passing team in the NFL – behind only Baltimore and San Francisco. That won’t change this weekend, as Stroud will likely pick apart the Patriots’ 24th-ranked defense. And, Ryans may be motivated to throw even more if running back Joe Mixon (ankle) is ruled out for Sunday.
“We don’t know as of right now [about Mixon’s status],” Ryans told the media. “I can’t give you that answer, but we will see how Joe improves over the week. He has been improving week to week, he’s been doing a great job attacking his rehab so we will see where he is as the week goes on.”
If Mixon can’t go, veteran Cam Akers will likely carry the workload. Still, Ryans shouldn’t be too tempted to abandon the ground game – particularly when playing on the road.
The Defense Must Pressure Drake Maye
The Texans defense has been solid so far this season. They’re currently ranked fourth in The League, allowing just 274.2 yards per game. Opponents are averaging 22.8 points per contest.
Looking past the overall stats, the Texans’ pass rush has been effective, sacking the quarterback 14 times this year. They have regularly been in the backfield this season. Meanwhile, the Pats have given up 17 sacks and had a bit of a QB controversy this week.
It’s been announced that first-round pick Drake Maye will get the start for New England. With a rookie in the pocket, look for Ryans and defensive coordinator Matt Burke to dial up some extra blitz packages. The goal will be to knock the youngster off his game plan before he can get into any kind of groove.
Houston Can’t Be Complacent
As mentioned, it would be quite easy for the Texans to look past the Patriots this weekend, considering the difference in the records of the two squads. And, quite simply, they have a long way to go until their bye week (Week 14). So, it would be easy for them to let this one slip away.
Houston has a huge showdown with the Green Bay Packers on Oct. 20 at Lambeau Field. Two straight road losses would likely spiral the team out of first place in the AFC South. That’s not the trend that Ryans wants to see as the season nears its midway point.
The next two weeks will be pivotal for the Texans.
With a couple of wins, they can stake their claim as one of the best of the best in the NFL.
Main Photo: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
