Texans vs. Jets: Staff predictions

Nov 16, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Houston Texans cornerback Johnathan Joseph (24) intercepts a pass intended for Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Marvin Jones (82) as Texans strong safety Quintin Demps (27) watches during a NFL football game at Paul Brown Stadium. The Texans defeated the Bengals 10-6. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Hayden Winks, Staff Writer:

Game: New York Jets (5-4) at Houston Texans (4-5)

Prediction: This game has the looks of a low to mid-scoring battle. The Texans defense has made a midseason turn around after one of the worst stretches in franchise history. The offense continues to struggle unless the game is in garbage time. Things could get worse if Brian Hoyer sits out. The signing of Branden Weeden signals to me that Hoyer is likely to sit.

Despite the thumb injury to Ryan Fitzpatrick that required surgery last Friday, the Jets are fully prepared for him to start. He has enjoyed the tandem of Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker all season, who have produced some of the best one-two punch numbers in the entire league. Chris Ivory has been in a slump of late, but has shown Adrian Peterson-esque talent this season.

Defensively, the Jets have been a little worrisome in the secondary. Despite holding Sammy Watkins to a 3 catch 14 yard performance in the “Colorblind Game”, Revis has been showing signs of decline on tape. Sammy Watkins, who has a very similar skill set to DeAndre Hopkins, was able to get tons of separation on Revis, including a would be long bomb touchdown if Tyrod Taylor would have led Sammy more to the center of the field. I think despite the tough matchup on paper against a superstar corner, DeAndre Hopkins will be the primary source of yardage and scoring for the Texans. I am still expecting big numbers from our young superstar.

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The run game will be tough against a more than capable front seven. Alfred Blue has proved time and again that he is not worthy of a starting job, however he is still probably the best option to this point. The offensive line will struggle opening holes and this could be a season low for the Houston Texans rushing attack.

Final score: Texans 17, Jets 20