{"id":69895,"date":"2019-08-12T06:57:07","date_gmt":"2019-08-12T10:57:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lwosonnfl.ms.lastwordonsports.com\/?p=69895"},"modified":"2021-03-14T15:18:23","modified_gmt":"2021-03-14T19:18:23","slug":"houston-texans-most-difficult-games-in-2019","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/nfl\/2019\/08\/12\/houston-texans-most-difficult-games-in-2019\/","title":{"rendered":"Houston Texans Most Difficult Games in 2019"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Houston Texans<\/a> most difficult games are make-or-break match-ups. With training camp underway and the preseason approaching, Last Word on Pro Football<\/a> is analyzing the schedules of all 32 NFL teams. Each team’s 16-game slate will be split into its most difficult (1-8) and easiest games (9-16). For this article, the toughest games on the Houston Texans 2019 schedule is under the microscope.<\/p>\n

Houston Texans Easiest Games<\/strong><\/em><\/a><\/p>\n

Houston Texans Most Difficult Games in 2019<\/h2>\n

1. Week 1 at New Orleans Saints<\/h3>\n

Opening the season in New Orleans will be a tough environment for the Texans. Facing off against the top-ranked quarterback in the NFL top 100, Houston’s defense could have trouble. Drew Brees<\/a><\/strong> and the Saints offense are expected to thrive this season. Containing Brees and New Orleans early will be a main key. If the Texans want to win, their offense led by Deshaun Watson<\/a><\/strong> will have to outperform New Orleans for 60 minutes.<\/p>\n

2. Week 6 at Kansas City Chiefs<\/h3>\n

Facing the NFL’s next best phenom in Patrick Mahomes<\/a><\/strong> will be an interesting challenge. Playing at rowdy Arrowhead Stadium will be a tough atmosphere for the Texans. If Houston can come into the game with a winning record and remain consistent, they could leave with a win. This matchup against Kansas City could be crucial for the AFC playoff race in 2019.<\/p>\n

3. Week 13 vs New England Patriots<\/h3>\n

Hosting Tom Brady<\/a><\/strong> late in the season will give Houston a tough challenge. The Texans are 1-8 against New England all-time in the regular season as an expansion team. Their record against the Patriots can improve should the Texans’ offense get the momentum going. Watson will need to be a true mature NFL quarterback for his team to have a chance. If Houston wins, they could be in the playoff race. That is, if they have a good record at this point.<\/p>\n

4. Week 3 at Los Angeles Chargers<\/h3>\n

Traveling to California to take on the surging Chargers could be an interesting game. Los Angeles is expected to be a contender this season. Veteran quarterback Philip Rivers<\/a><\/strong> gives Houston’s defense a challenge. Though the team may not have Melvin Gordon<\/a><\/strong>, the Chargers will still be a quality team. An early-season win could give Houston the boost they need to be a true contender.<\/p>\n

5. Week 5 vs Atlanta Falcons<\/h3>\n

The Falcons could be a scary team in 2019. For the Texans, the main key is to contain Julio<\/strong> Jones<\/strong>. One of the most dynamic receivers in the NFL could give the Texans a hard time. Their defense will have to step up in this game to give the offense a shot to win. Getting a win in week five would help Houston’s momentum push for the playoffs early. A win would also boost the team as a whole.<\/p>\n

6. Week 2 vs Jacksonville Jaguars<\/h3>\n

The Jaguars are going to be a good team this season. Houston will need to stop Nick Foles<\/a><\/strong> from throwing deep passes to get to the goal line. The defense has to get off the line early and have the edge. Getting to the backfield will be a major key. Houston’s linebackers and secondary have to contain the open field. For the offense, Watson will need to become a game manager for this one. Getting a win against your divisional rival is always great early in the season.<\/p>\n

7. Week 4 vs Carolina Panthers<\/h3>\n

Arriving home after their trip to California could present an interesting environment. Hosting the Carolina Panthers will be a rowdy crowd. NRG Stadium will be rocking for this game. Stopping Cam Newton<\/a><\/strong> and Christian McCaffrey<\/a><\/strong> is key. The defensive line has to get in the backfield and keep Newton under pressure the whole game. The intricate key to this match-up will be the secondary. The Texans’ secondary has to be on their top game to get a win.<\/p>\n

8. Week 11 vs Indianapolis Colts<\/h3>\n

Hosting a division rival on a Thursday night is always bittersweet. The week before Thanksgiving provides a good contest for this Houston Texans team. If they can contain Andrew Luck<\/a><\/strong>, the team has a chance. The Colts could be a sleeper this year, so watch out. Houston knows what a win would mean. Potential bragging rights in the division. One win closer to the playoffs. Getting the dub this game will provide a lot of momentum for this team.<\/p>\n

Houston Texans Easiest Games<\/strong><\/em><\/a><\/p>\n

Main photo:
\nEmbed from Getty Images<\/a>