The Texans suit up to play the Patriots this weekend, which includes some non-favorable history in favor of New England. New England has won every single matchup against Houston under the Bill O’Brien Era, and had a chance to win last playoffs, but the situation at QB was obviously a factor in closing out that game.
Deshaun Watson will be tested. No rookie QB has ever beaten the Patriots under the Bill Belichick era (0-8). They have also thrown for 5TD’s and 14 INT’s. This is going to be his biggest test yet, and yes, I know he’s been to a national championship with Clemson. Watson is going to be abused and forced to make throws he won’t like, and that’s going to affect the offense. With everyone back who was out due to a concussion last week, such as our TE’s and WR’s, Watson will have a few more weapons to use in the game this week to hopefully pull out the first win in the Bill O’Brien Era against the Patriots. Watsons development will be key here, and this is the first time he’s practiced with the starters for a full week. I expect him to be more comfortable in the pocket, and the weapons on offense to hopefully help them next.
The Defense is going to change the game for sure. With an Elite QB like Tom Brady standing in the pocket, only bad things will happen to you. Brady is a perfect passer who can tear up defenses after they give him any sort of open look. Without Edelman, the Texans may be able to cover better, but Brady is always able to make any throw to any WR. This will be the key to Watson being able to drive. If the Defense can help out this week (which they have done), Watson will have an easier time, and could hopefully tire out the Patriots defense to make running plays and fast action plays better for Watson.
