Most of us are slowly coming down off of our high from the Houston Texans week 1 win over the Indianapolis Colts. Next up in the Texans tour of domination is the Washington Redskins - in Washington.
The Redskins didn't have near the impressive week that the Texans did. In one of the most boring Primetime games that I have ever seen, they eeked passed the Dallas Cowboys in a truly ugly game. Under most circumstances I would consider the poor showing last week, a great thing for the Texans, but I'm not convinced yet.
Because they barely beat Dallas and had a cold offensive performance, you can take your money to the bank that the Shanahan's are going to try to "bring it" this week. The Texans looked great against a pass first first offense, but now they will face a more balanced attack where bringing in a nickel that replaces the void left by Cushing at linebacker won't be as effective.
That said, on a top level - the Redskins really aren't that good. If the Texans come out of the gate as strong as they did in week 1, they most likely won't have too difficult a time. For that to happen though, they'll have to do a few things right.
1. Ogunleye better be ready - The first few defensive stands against the Colts were amazing. Part of that success had to do with the ability to move Connor Barwin up and down the defensive line and rush from all angles. If Ogunleye can fill half of this void, it will really help the Texans.
2. The Foster Follow-Up - Arian Foster MUST come out strong, keep his momentum going and run for 100+ yards. If he is running a lot, that means the Texans are controlling the ball - which is a good thing. The Redskins have a stronger run defense than the Colts did, so I don't see Foster racking up 231, but he should be able to show if he is the "real deal."
3. Tricks - Redskins Offensive Coordinator Kyle Shanahan knows the Texans offense better than almost anyone out there. So does Mike Shanahan - after all, his influence was what built the Texans playbook. Don't think for a second that they haven't been preparing their defense for the Texans with their knowledge. Kubiak and company are going to need to surprise the Redskins with a few tricks hidden up their sleeve. Not to say they need to abandon their playbook, but this would be a good time to test out those plays that no one has ever seen.
A given is that the Houston Texans players will have to prove that they can execute on a weekly basis. Last week they proved they could smack a big opponent in the mouth, hold onto a big lead and finish a game. This week they need to prove that they can do it week in and week out.
Prediction: Texans 31 - Redskins 17
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