A retooled defense matches up well with the Patriots
TheHouston Texanstook the opportunity this offseason to retool their defense after injuries exposed some holes last season. One of the biggest areas of concern for the Texans was the safety position. As the last of defense, the guys last season weren’t exactly cutting it.
So, the front office went out and scooped upTyrann Mathieuafter he was cut by the Cardinals. Adding the Honey Badger wasn’t enough though, especially afterJustin Reidslipped to the third round. AfterAndre Halwas diagnosed with cancer, the Texans also shiftedKareem Jacksonfrom cornerback to safety.
Upgrading at safety was a great way to jumpstart this defense back to prominence. However, they also adding cornerbackAaron Colvin. Colvin played a lot of slot in Jacksonville but, he’ll get looks on the outside as well. The Texans will also have a full year ofZach Cunninghamstarting at WILL as well.
Rob Gronkowskiis one of the most dangerous playmakers in the entire NFL and in the past the Texans haven’t had much of an answer for him. However, this year they look better suited to do so. Cunningham is about the same size and speed as Gronk and is solid in coverage. Some combo of Colvin, Mathieu, and Reid could also do some work on him.
Besides Gronk, the Patriots don’t have too many guys that create matchup problems. So, this retooled defense shouldn’t have any issues matching up against the Patriots. Sure, they might have the occasional big play but, if they can contain Brady and Gronk for the most part, the Texans should win pretty handily.
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