Texans at Vikings: Final Thoughts and Score Prediction

One team is walking out of this one 3-0

Cam Akers had one of the worst days of his football career 319 days ago. It was the second time Akers had torn his Achilles—another long road to recovery ahead. There are no guarantees on what football would be like after another grueling injury. Could he even play football again?

An injury opened the door for his return to a team. Joe Mixon was hurt days into training camp for the Texans. Akers got the nod to join the Texans. He was likely there as a camp body until Mixon was healthy. Then he made the most of every opportunity. He stood out. He made the team.

An injury to Mixon has opened the door again. Mixon’s ankle will keep him out of this game. Dameon Pierce is down too. Akers will shoulder the rushing load with Dare Ogunbowale, British Brooks, and J.J. Taylor.

Nick Caserio deserves kudos. Last year he signed George Fant near the start of training camp. Fant’s usefulness was apparent immediately as Tytus Howard went down in camp. Akers could have a similar impact. The team never expected to play Fant early and often. It’s the same a year later with Akers.

It's Still Just Sam Darnold Right?

Houston can’t force it. As good as Akers has looked, he’s not Mixon. They can’t abandon the run either. What was the primary weapon in week one is now better equipped as a sidearm. C.J. Stroud is one of the best quarterbacks in the league. He has a cupboard stocked with weapons. The Texans have their offensive line from week one intact after Juice Scruggs made it back from a groin injury this week. When they do run it’s the best blocking they could ask for this season.

Don’t treat Akers and the rest of the backs like Mixon, but don’t ignore them. Bobby Slowik must find an exceptional balance to the offense in this one.

Earlier this week Akers furrowed his brow as he was asked about being ready for an increased workload. He seemed almost offended by the notion.

“I’m ready,” Akers said softening his expression. “You don’t got to get ready when you stay ready.”

Score Prediction

The Texans will win 28-20. Stefon Diggs scores a touchdown in his return to Minnesota. Danielle Hunter gets a sack. Sam Darnold hasn’t faced an aggressive front like what the Texans have and it will show in this one as he makes a few back-breaking errors. The Vikings can still move the ball a little, but they’re playing from behind most of the game. Houston has C.J. Stroud and that’s too much for Darnold to match.

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