Texans vs. Patriots: Who has the advantage at every position?
Who has the advantage at wide receiver and tight end?
At varying times this year, the New England Patriots receiving group has been stacked with former first rounders and veteran playmakers, including Josh Gordon and Demaryius Thomas. Neither lasted long on the roster, yet former Atlanta Falcon Mohamed Sanu has stepped in admirably as the No. 2 wide receiver on the squad.
Julian Edelman is the defending Super Bowl MVP, and his 809 yards nearly double the next highest total on his team. Phillip Dorsett flamed out with the Indianapolis Colts, but has found new life with five touchdowns in 11 games as a deep play threat.
Ben Watson‘s best years are behind him, as he has failed to register a score as Rob Gronkowski‘s replacement. The wide receiver group for the Texans is a completely different story, with their three-headed monster becoming one of the best position groups in the league right now.
DeAndre Hopkins is in a class of his own, tied for seventh in the game with six touchdowns and 839 yards. He may not have the elite stats that he’s known for, but the spread of targets to Will Fuller and Kenny Stills (990 yards and four touchdowns combined) reduces the need for sole player production.
The tight end group is unusually deep, especially considering the activation of Jordan Thomas from IR. Darren Fells has the most receiving touchdowns in the game at six, and ultimately gives the Texans a slight edge in this category.