Colts vs. Texans wild card weekend: Key matchups
By Ryan Stano
This game will be extremely hard fought, so it will come down to whoever wins certain key matchups. These are the ones to look for on Saturday evening.
Both the Colts and the Texans have been playing good football lately. Both matchups between these teams in the regular season were extremely close, with each team winning by only three points. This week’s game should be no different, and will come down to these key matchups.
T.Y. Hilton vs. Houston secondary
NRG stadium has been Hilton’s second home. In his career, he has almost 1000 yards receiving in Houston. In the last game in Houston, he had 199 yards. If Houston can’t find an answer for him on Saturday, that spells trouble for their prospects to move on.
Colts D-line vs. Deshaun Watson
Watson has been sacked 62 times this season. The Colts themselves have been able to sack Watson 12 times. Watson has the propensity to hold the ball too long, and that allows rushers to get home. Expect the Colts defensive line to be able to rush the passer effectively.
Colts O-line vs. Houston front seven
The Colts have had a great year up front with the offensive line. They have allowed the fewest sacks in the league. But Houston has great pass rushers like J.J. Watt and Jadeveon Clowney. The Colts did a good job neutralizing them in the last matchup. Let’s see if they can do it again.
Frank Reich vs. Aggressiveness
Reich let Houston have a win in Lucas Oil Stadium after opting to go for it on 4th down in their own territory in overtime. They didn’t convert, and Houston won the game on a field goal. He could have played for the tie. Reich may have to check himself late in the game if a similar situation arrises.
This will be a great game between two divisional opponents. It should be fun to watch all of these matchups.