Here’s 3 reasons the Houston Texans can win the AFC South

Lovie Smith will elevate the rushing defense of the Houston Texans

The Houston Texans allowed the second-most rushing yards in the league with 2,418. Only Pittsburgh was worse than Houston. If a deal is done, Houston may get a big trade haul from shipping off Deshaun Watson.

Perhaps a star interior defensive lineman or run-stopping linebacker gets included in that trade. Perhaps the Texans have a chance to select Nakobe Dean somewhere within the first two rounds of the draft. Akiem Hicks, one of the best run stoppers in the entire league, is also a free agent.

Whatever happens, Smith will get this defense up to speed. They were the team’s best overall unit last year, and they should do the same in 2022. Improving the rush defense is critical in a division with Derrick Henry and Jonathon Taylor. Houston missed 124 tackles last season, an embarrassing number that will improve under Smith’s watch.

Forcing divisional teams to pass with less-than-optimal quarterbacks is the key to success. Especially if Carson Wentz stays another season in Indianapolis.