KC Chiefs Game Day Prediction: Week 1 at Houston
By Mike Norris
Houston Texans defensive end J.J Watt (99) – Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Opponent: Houston Texans
2014 Record: 9-7
Best Player: J.J. Watt, DE
Sleeper: Alfred Blue, RB
Best Match-up: Watt vs. Justin Houston, LB (not technically a match-up but will be fun to compare the two)
Something you didn’t know: Houston has not lost a season-opener since 2009.
If it weren’t for a stellar defense, the Texans could be a last-place team. They are currently without stud running back Arian Foster due to injury, and their quarterback is journeyman Brian Hoyer.
Wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (1,210 yards; six TDs in 2014) is the closest thing to a play maker the team has on offense, while the unproven Blue could have a good game in Foster’s absence, with could being the key word.
On the other side of the ball is the All-Pro Watt. He was recently named the NFL’s Best Player (by the NFL), and is poised for another great season. While Chiefs fans have a favorite defensive player of their own in Justin Houston, trying to contain Watt will be worth the watch on Sunday.
According to Paylor below, Watt will be lining up against Eric Fisher, something that is coming as a bit of a surprise, he said.
Watt however isn’t the only stud on the defensive side of the ball. Former No. 1 overall pick Jadeveon Clowney is a beast at linebacker, tackle Vince Wilfork is no spring chicken but he’s (New England) experienced, and ILB Brian Cushing is recovering well after missing 20 games due to injury in 2012 and 2013.
The secondary is probably the unit’s weakest link, but Smith and the Chiefs don’t exactly light up the scoreboard through the air.
Head coach Bill O’Brien, in his second year, improved the team’s win total by seven games last year over 2013 and is considered a rising star in the NFL.
Next: Who Will Win?