Non-Texan Take: Week 4 vs. Tennessee Titans Preview
Houston came out of Denver with a big win on Sunday, and even had a great showing stuffing the run (21 carries for 59 yards). This week features an early game (Sunday, noon CST) at Reliant against the Tennessee Titans. Here is what to watch:
Oct 23, 2011; Nashville,TN, USA; Houston Texans tight end Joel Dreessen (85) celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Tennessee Titans with teammates Houston offensive tackle Duane Brown (76) and Houston tight end Owen Daniels (81) during the first half at LP Field. Credit: Jim Brown-US PRESSWIRE
Owen Daniels vs. Tennessee Tight Ends
Tennessee has had a number of struggles this season, but they’ve exhibited arguably the worst pass defense in the league. The lowlight of their coverage is against tight ends, to whom they’ve allowed nearly 100 yards per game. Owen Daniels is tied for the Houston lead in catches (13) and should see his fair share of opportunities on Sunday.
Momentum
Tennessee is coming off of a big overtime victory against a heavily-favored opponent, as their quarterback Jake Locker had one of the finest games of his short career. Houston let Denver cut an early 20-point lead to within a touchdown. If last week’s finishes carry over, expect Tennessee to have an advantage in this intangible.
Darius Reynaud vs. Houston Kickoff Coverage
Houston’s coverage unit improved a great deal last season. Still, they should be on the alert for Reynaud, who took a kick back 105 yards to the house last weekend. Reynaud isn’t a household name, so Houston may not pay him special attention. He may make them pay for it.
Sep 23, 2012; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans running back Darius Reynaud (25) runs a kickoff back for a touchdown against the Detroit Lions during the second half at LP Field. The Titans beat the Lions 44-41 in overtime. Credit: Don McPeak-US PRESSWIRE
Prediction: Daniels may not be a lock for 100 yards, but expect him to have a very good game receiving. Houston tends to start the game with a good offensive script, which should curb any momentum that the Titans have coming into the game. Reynaud should be a factor in the kickoff return game, but don’t expect him to score a touchdown. Though you never know what’s going to happen in an AFC South divisional matchup, Houston is the much more talented team in this game. HOU 34, TEN 17