Houston Texans: 2020 schedule predictions and breakdown

Week 16: Cincinnati Bengals at Houston Texans

The Bengals were a mess all of last season and rightfully earned the first overall pick to select LSU quarterback Joe Burrow. He should be the favorite to win Rookie of the Year, seeing as he’ll be throwing to AJ Green, former Clemson rookie Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd.

Their offense has more firepower than you might expect, but the defense is as weak as they come. Geno Atkins will now be playing next to former Texans nose tackle D.J. Reader, but the secondary is easily taken advantage of and there aren’t a lot of great linebackers to name.

The Texans fall victim to a trap game every year, just like the Broncos disaster in 2019, but they should be focused on winning enough games to even make it to the postseason first. This is a winnable game, and dismantling the rookie QB has to be the top priority.

By season’s end, we should see a solid pass-rushing unit including Blacklock, Jonathan Greenard, Whitney Mercilus and obviously J.J. Watt. This game should not be overlooked, but another win should be expected.

Prediction: Texans 34, Bengals 20 (Houston Record: 9-6)

Week 17: Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans

It all comes down to this, and by this point, there should be a healthy competition between the Colts, Titans and Texans for the division crown and Week 17 very well may decide the victor.

Last year the Texans rested their starters for this game and helped parlay the Titans’ eventual to the AFC Championship game. With Watson and company playing a meaningful game and putting the team on his shoulders, it will be incredible to watch these two teams face off.

Beyond Derrick Henry and the ground game, the Titans also feature A.J. Brown, Corey Davis and Adam Humphries outside. Head coach Mike Vrabel understands the Texans defense very well, so hopefully new Defensive Coordinator Anthony Weaver is able to out-maneuver the man who used to hold his job.

In a close game from start to finish, expect to see the home team knock the Titans out of the playoff hunt and secure their spot in the postseason.

Prediction: Texans 22, Titans 20 (Houston Record: 10-6)

At 10-6, the Texans will either be the AFC South Champions or at the very least in a Wild Card spot. Considering the wild offseason we have all experienced, 10 wins would be a dream season if everything comes together as it should.