Texans vs. Cardinals: What To Look For On Offense
By Bob Dove
The receivers are even more important if the offensive line can’t run block consistently. Here’s what to look for against the Cardinals.
Can the young receivers continue to excel against a much better defense? The Cardinals defense is far better than the 49ers or Saints. Against the Saints Will Fuller and Braxton Miller combined for more than 100 receiving yards playing half the game. Second year receiver Jaelen Strong also figured prominently in the passing game.
DeAndre Hopkins will play more against the Cardinals. That gives the three young receivers the opportunity to prove they are ready to complement him. If all three have good games that will be good news for the Texans offense…not such good news for Cecil Shorts, Keith Mumphrey and Josh Lenz who will be fighting for the remaining one or two roster spots.
Fans should look for the route running ability and the pass catching success of the young receivers against a very good Cardinals secondary. Perhaps even more interesting will be observing the level of confidence that Brock Osweiler has in each of them. Who does he turn to in key situations? Who does he look for to escape trouble? Those answers will be telling in this game.
Next: What To Look For - Running Backs