The showdown between the Houston Texans and the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium has the makings to be game of the year. With so many story lines, match-ups, and possibilities, there will be a lot to look forward to Sunday. Here are four Texan players to watch for.
1. rb carlos hyde
This week we found out Chiefs general manager Brett Veach never called Hyde about the trade on Aug. 31. With that being said, the Texans run the ball effectively; averaging 129 per game, the 10th-best in the league. The Chiefs are not so good at stopping the run, allowing 155 per game. Expect a heavy workload from Hyde, which will help keep the Chiefs offense on the sideline.
2. the tight end group
Currently, Kansas City safety Tyrann Mathieu has allowed 11 completion of the 16 targeted his way and 11 yards per catch. The Chiefs as a team are allowing 45 percent conversions in the red zone. With that being the case, expect a big day from the Texans’ tight ends. Jordan Akins and Darren Fells have only combined for 247 yards, but they have 5 touchdowns. Big targets should have a big day.
3. de j.j. watt
Watt has been coming on strong since week 2. Watt leads the league in QB hits with 13, and getting after Patrick Mahomes will be easier with Eric Fisher out due to a groin injury.
4. s tashaun gipson
When you prepare for the Chiefs, you have to prepare for Patrick Mahomes and everything he can do on the field. One thing he’s been great at doing is finding tight Travis Kelce. Kelce is a match-up nightmare, but Gipson is ready to take the challenge. Through 5 weeks, Gipson has only allowed 108 yards for passes thrown his way and zero touchdowns. His track records against elite tight ends have been recorded, and Sunday he’ll have his hands full.
