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sports9h ago
Texans-Patriots preview: Expert breakdown and prediction for NFL playoff matchup
- Patriots advance to the AFC Championship after a 27-17 win over the Texans in the divisional round, with Drake Maye keying the offense.
- Will Campbell faces the Texans’ edge duo of Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter, a major test for the rookie left tackle.
- Texans leaned on six-man line formations to spark their ground game, a strategy New England aimed to disrupt.
- Texans guard Nico Collins was out with a concussion, limiting Houston’s passing options.
- Houston’s rushing EPA per play showed a late-season decline, delaying an anticipated ground game success.
- Patriots exploited Houston’s blitz tendencies, with Stroud showing vulnerability to pressures.
- The game featured a clash of two strong defenses, with Patriots relying on pressure and big plays to seal the win.
- Coach Mike Vrabel emphasized the contest’s physicality and preparation in the divisional round.
- Patriots move one step closer to the AFC Championship with a strategic, adaptable game plan.
- The matchup carried high familiarity, reflecting shared coaching ties between New England and Houston.
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