The Houston Texans seek their first 3-1 start since 2016, but the Carolina Panthers stand in the way in Week 4 at NRG Stadium. In order for the Texans to end September on a three-game winning streak, they are going to have to accomplish these four goals throughout the game.
1. limit rb christian mccaffrey
The former Stanford Cardinal has a 5.4 yards per carry. In the win against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 3, while it is true that Kyle Allen produced four touchdowns and did not have an interception, McCaffrey went over 100 yards rushing in that contest. So long as McCaffrey is providing a semblance of balance for the Carolina offense, he will take the heat off of Allen. Of course, stopping McCaffrey is easier said than done, but it is a task the Texans must carry out if they want to reach 3-1.
2. establish their own run game
Maybe it is because the Panthers are 1-2 and their star quarterback is hurt, but Carolina’s defense has been producing sacks at the pace of 12 since the start of the season and tied with the Green Bay Packers for the third-most in the NFL. Only the New England Patriots and Jacksonville Jaguars have more. If Houston can’t get the run game going, then the Panthers defense will know they can pin their ears back and send pass rushers after quarterback Deshaun Watson. Getting running back Carlos Hyde going early will help mitigate against that outcome, keep Watson more upright than usual, and help open up the passing game to big plays.
3. other pass rushers have to step up
By stating this fact, in no way is it being suggested that other pass rushers have not risen to the occasion over the past couple of weeks. Rather, it emphasizes that it needs to continue. Nose tackle D.J. Reader was able to penetrate the Los Angeles Chargers’ interior offensive line in Week 3 and provide significant pressure against quarterback Philip Rivers. Rookie defensive end Charles Omenihu took advantages of his opportunities. Of course, these players had the chance because of the attention outside linebacker Whitney Mercilus and defensive end J.J. Watt commanded, and they will no doubt receive it against the Panthers. As such, other parts of the front seven have to get home and harass quarterback Kyle Allen.
4. take what the defense gives
The Carolina defense knows DeAndre Hopkins is a receiving threat, and will take him away. They know Will Fuller is a speedy option that can beat them deep, and will try to take him away. However, they can’t guard everyone, and quarterback Deshaun Watson must go through his progressions and find the open man. The Pro Bowl signal caller has actual done a good job of doing just that, but there may be early opportunities to work his tight ends into the mix, or maybe even running backs in the passing game if the rare chance arises. Obviously the Texans have a will they want to dictate, but they have a plethora of quality receiving options that they should be able to get chunk plays no matter what position group or individuals they target.
