We are going to find out exactly how good this defense is....... it is one of the 2-3 best in the league, or is it more than that, and a once in a decade or more defense that can shut down anyone on the field. I don't really trust their OC and some of the skill position players on the offensive side - but at some point they are going to have their back to the wall and need to score. Stroud has the ability to be at least a very good QB, but he needs to do it.
It certainly doesn't help not having Nico. Hopefully they can run the ball like they did against the Steelers.
Completely agree on Nico - I have concerns about that, I will be looking to see if either Stroud steps up making big plays, or if he at least does what guys like Phil Simms did, protect the ball and sustain long drives.
Nico's deep threat ability could make the run game more difficult. Texans should throw deep early just to show it. Seven-step drop then launch (safely).... out of bounds if necessary. Just show it.
[Schefter] Patriots CB Christian Gonzalez has cleared the concussion protocol and is expected to play Sunday versus the Texans.
It was cool when AD missed the Denver game on Wednesday but managed to make appearances vs Rockets each of their last 2 games too. Regardless... this equals less excuses for NE, plus Historic Defense shall overcome all. And CJ will have <3 turnovers.
I'm gonna say this, and I don't like picking games: CJ Stroud will be the difference maker on Sunday...in a POSITIVE way.
This is the first time I feel like we have a shot in the divisional round. The Pats, Ravens, and Chiefs all felt like a tall task but this is the first time in our history, I feel like we could do it. But I’m not holding my breath
This is the first year that we actually have a realistic chance to win it all. No dynasties in our way.
I actually disagree. I might be in minority but I think we might be better without Nico. Nothing against him, but CJ focuses too much on him, and this way he's actually looking at other options.
Man... I can't blame them. When I think about the Patriots there is just not an ounce of fear. Yeah we have our issues but I just see us winning this. Years past I didn't see it that way.
It seems many here are VERY confident in the Texans beating the Pats, perhaps even winning big. Two things: (1) Nico isn't playing [yes, that is a definite negative for the Texans] and (2) without the two returns, the Steelers score would have probably been only 17-6. IMO, the Steelers did not even belong in the playoffs. I see the game as 50/50 and believe it will be close if the Texans win. Don't forget their Red Zone problems. The most likely blowout scenario is the Texans offense being completely useless in the snow, imploding and turning the ball over. IMO, the Texans have no chance for a blowout without 2-3 returns for TD, which is very unlikely.
