The Houston Texans are preparing for a critical divisional matchup this weekend against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Following a loss in Week 3, the Texans are eager to avoid being swept in the season series while also aiming to gain momentum for a stronger performance in the latter half of the season. However, achieving this goal will require the Texans to focus on several key elements, especially with C.J. Stroud sidelined due to concussion protocol after last week”s game.
To secure victory, the Texans must emphasize three significant areas:
Defensive Strategy is Essential
With Stroud out of the lineup, the Texans are unlikely to win a high-scoring affair. Historically, their offense has struggled to keep pace in shootouts, and with Davis Mills stepping in as quarterback, expectations should remain realistic. The success of the Texans will heavily rely on their defensive performance. Currently, they boast the league”s best scoring defense and have the necessary talent to challenge the Jaguars” offense led by Liam Coen. The Texans have yet to concede more than 20 points in a game this season. If they can maintain this defensive prowess against Jacksonville, who scored 17 points in their previous encounter, they stand a good chance of overcoming Stroud”s absence.
Improving Rushing Attack
The Texans experienced their most disappointing rushing performance of the season last week against the Denver Broncos, averaging less than three yards per carry. With no rusher surpassing 40 yards, the ground game needs to improve significantly, especially now that Stroud is out. Historically, the Texans have found success when rushing for over 120 yards, achieving victories in all three games where they have done so this season. In contrast, their losses have seen an average of just 83.6 rushing yards per game. Players like Nick Chubb and Woody Marks must see increased touches to enhance their chances against the Jaguars.
Third-Down Efficiency Matters
This season, the Texans have struggled with third-down conversions, ranking among the lowest in the NFL. They are second to last in this statistic, only ahead of the struggling Tennessee Titans. Mills will need to improve this aspect of the game, as the Texans converted only 3 of 17 third-down opportunities last week and just 4 of 15 in their last meeting against Jacksonville. Success on third down could be pivotal in keeping the offense on the field and gaining momentum. If the Texans continue to falter in this area against a capable Jaguars defense, it could lead to another challenging outing at NRG Stadium.
In summary, the Texans must tighten their defense, revitalize their rushing attack, and improve third-down efficiency to achieve a much-needed victory against their divisional rivals this weekend.
