Houston Texans Schedule Reaction
By Josh McSwain
Week 14- at Indianapolis Colts
Last year the Texans got their first win in Indianapolis, and this game will likely have just as much bearing on the AFC South title race. With Luck back the Colts figure to be contenders once again, and it will take a stellar performance by the Texans defense to get their second straight win at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Week 15- Jacksonville Jaguars
This could be a crucial game for both teams as well. Playing against a team that has not played in many big games before will undoubtedly be an advantage for the Texans. I think Hopkins should still have opportunities for big plays in this game against a suspect Jaguars secondary. Davon House is a #2 corner and Prince Amukamara is always hurt.
Week 16- Cincinnati Bengals
We never seem to know what’s going to happen in these games. Last year when everything pointed to a Bengals romp the Texans went into Cincy and shut down Andy Dalton and the high flying Bengals. That kick started the Texans run to the division title. We’ve seen T.J. Yates come in off the bench and play well, so at home who knows. Perhaps the Dalton that struggled in two Wild Card games in Houston will show up again.
Week 17- at Tennessee Titans
By this time, the Titans very easily could have nothing to play for. While they figure to be better this season, due in large part to Murray, a healthy Mariota and a bevy of picks early in this year’s draft, I don’t think they do much better than 6-10 this season under Mike Mularkey.
As usual, the Texans will close the season with three games against divisional opponents in the last month of the season. The division should be improved from last season, but I doubt any team will be running away with it, meaning the Texans should still be contention throughout the last month of the year.
Conclusion
Overall, I see the Texans finishing around 8-8. Playing a first place schedule with the Patriots and Bengals as well as what I think will be a solid NFC North top to bottom and improved divisional opponents next season, Houston will be hard pressed to improve on their 2015 mark.