Philadelphia Eagles: Three keys to a Week 16 win over Houston Texans
By Jake Starr
Get After Deshaun Watson
While Houston has been impressive this season, one area they do struggle in is taking too many sacks. Opposing teams have racked up 52 sacks on Watson this season, which comes out to just under four per game. A historically high amount of sacks.
On Sunday, the Eagles have to take advantage of this flaw in the Houston offense if they wish to slow down the Texans. Getting pressure on Watson will force some mistakes and allow him less time to push the ball downfield to DeAndre Hopkins, Houston’s best playmaker.
It will also help that Houston running back Lamar Miller is banged up and may not play, and if he does suit up, he won’t be at 100%. So with Miller and Hopkins both banged up, the Eagles need to take advantage of a Texans’ offense that won’t be at full health.
If the Eagles can get to Watson, like so many teams have been able to, then he may have a big day against this Eagles defense. Credit to Jim Schwartz for rolling out a great game plan last week, but if given time, Watson should be able to make plays through the air or with his legs.
Rasul Douglas, Avonte Maddox, and Cre’von Leblanc have all looked good as of late, and all will get a shot at covering Hopkins. The Eagles defensive line has to do their part in helping out the secondary, so those younger corners are not left out to dry against one of the best receivers in the league.