2013 NFL Preview: Houston Texans

Added on Jul 24, 2013 by Scott in

NFL

Andrew Luck’s Colts and the seemingly improved Titans may be garnering a lot of attention this offseason, but the AFC South is still the Texans to lose. From top to bottom, they own one of the league’s most stable rosters with very few weaknesses. That said, they have fallen short in the playoffs the last two seasons and their window of opportunity to reach the Super Bowl is narrowing in a crowded AFC.

Houston Texans

The Texans are the definition of balanced. They finished in the Top 10 in both points scored and allowed in 2012, and should do the same in 2013. Arian Foster is a stud back, but his workload since 2010 is a concern. Gary Kubiak would be wise to involve Ben Tate more, if for no other reason than to rest Foster from time to time. Matt Schaub is a step back from elite, but he’s efficient and reliable. On defense, J.J. Watt, Brian Cushing and newly acquired Ed Reed lead a rising unit.

Player in the spotlight: DeAndre Hopkins – On a weekly basis, Hopkins was the most dominant wide receiver in college football in 2012, and did so playing opposite the supremely talented Sammy Watkins. Hopkins has excellent quickness, good size, and a solid set of hands. The offense has been searching for a proven playmaker opposite Andre Johnson, so Hopkins will be expected to contribute early.

Trouble spot: Safety – They added Ed Reed in hopes that he would bring the same leadership and intensity he had in Baltimore. However, Reed’s age and health has some questioning how much he has left in the tank. His football acumen should be enough to bolster an already skilled secondary, providing he’s on the field. Rookie D.J. Swearinger is one to watch as the season progresses.

Fearless forecast – Barring a spate of serious injuries to key players, Houston will seize another division title. With Denver, Baltimore, New England, Seattle and San Francisco on the schedule, getting to 12 wins again won’t be easy. 11-5 sounds about right.