Houston Texans: Why the team won't win the AFC South in 2018

After a season of promising hope ended abruptly with untimely injuries, the Houston Texans surely watched as two of their AFC South counterparts made playoff runs. The division is suddenly competitive, who will be the favorites for next season?

When Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson was officially ruled out for this past season, the possibility of making a playoff run went with him. The rookie sensation had instilled hope in a fan base that was used to disappointment.

Watson will be back; and with him, the Texans will definitely be a team to watch. Competition in the AFC south will be tougher than in years past though, with both the Tennessee Titans and Jacksonville Jaguars improving and the Indianapolis Colts welcoming Andrew Luck back.

Here’s a look at what each team will bring to the fight for the AFC South:

Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars were the second-ranked defense in yards allowed per game. They were also second in passing yards allowed behind only the Minnesota Vikings. With Jalen Ramsey and A.J. Bouye leading, the secondary was exceptional with 21 interceptions.

The defensive line also played great with 55 sacks behind only the league-leading 56 sacks from the Pittsburgh Steelers. The defense on all three levels was outstanding this past season and more should be expected from this promising core.

While Blake Bortles at quarterback isn’t the ideal situation, this team has too much talent to ignore. With the best rushing offense in the league, this team is as complete as any and will be a favorite to win the AFC South.

Tennessee Titans

The Titans made it to the AFC divisional round with an impressive comeback against the Kansas City Chiefs. Marcus Mariota showed great resolve and the team overall played decent football. When matched up against the New England Patriots though, the team was outmatched.

With a new head coach in Mike Vrabel, there’s no telling how the team will perform. Mariota can still improve but this team is currently a wild-card team at best.

Indianapolis Colts

They were the run of the litter in the division and one of the most horrendous in the NFL. The Colts will be glad to see Andrew Luck finally back.

Luck will surely improve the 30th-ranked passing offense but the Colts have problems in all areas.

More from House of Houston

The front office will need to revamp the roster in order to perform at a competitive level. Of all the teams in the AFC south, Indianapolis is the most substandard by quite a large margin.

Houston Texans

Houston finished last place in the division and deservedly so, after Watson went out there was little sign of belief in the team. The loss of the first possible franchise quarterback was too much to overcome.

DeAndre Hopkins was one of the few performers with 13 touchdown receptions along with Jadeveon Clowney who had 9.5 sacks. With Watson returning, expect Hopkins’ numbers to improve even further.

One area the offense will have to improve will be the rush, which ranked 15th this past season. If a move is made to acquire an effective back outside of Lamar Miller, this offense could be special.

Next: A potential Texans quarterback depth chart to consider

Prediction

As of now, not taking into account possible off season moves, here is my prediction for the division:

Jacksonville Jaguars
Houston Texans
Tennessee Titans
Indianapolis Colts

Do you agree? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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Houston Texans: Why the team won’t win the AFC South in 2018

By Yosting Chicas | Jan 26, 2018