Score Prediction and Final Thoughts as Texans Host Steelers
The Texans look for their second win of the season with J.J. Watt in attendance
Here are a few final thoughts as the game is hours away.
T.J. Watt Scares The Heck Out of Me
I know I said quarterback Kenny Pickett doesn’t scare me but the star pass rusher of the Steelers certainly scares me—a ton. T.J. Watt is the sacks leader and had the most pressures coming into this week.
Watt should line up over the right tackle, which I expect will be George Fant. I think there will be plenty of help for Fant and anyone who has to block Watt. It may come in the form of running backs, tight ends, or even fullback Andrew Beck. There will be moments where Watt is blocked solo, and that will depend on C.J. Stroud and the offense getting the ball out.
Alex Highsmith, the pass rusher opposite Watt, deserves credit but he’s not nearly as good. He’s also got the lesser opponent in this matchup as it could be Austin Deculus or even Geron Christian, who was promoted from the practice squad, at left tackle.
The Steelers have the second-highest pressure percentage in the NFL. They have the most total pressures in the AFC. They will get after C.J. Stroud. They will be disruptive. It is a much tougher challenge than the Jaguars, but what worked in Jacksonville should be on the menu.
Pittsburgh has allowed some of the most air yards against meaning they’re susceptible to a big play. Stroud and offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik will have to replicate a lot of the success from last week in Jacksonville. Running the ball can also help.
Pittsburgh allowed big games on the ground from the 49ers and Browns, even after Nick Cubb was injured, but got back on track against a putrid Raiders team. If the Texans have both aspects of the offense working they will be tough for Pittsburgh to stop.
