Patriots Mailbag: Where to exploit Texans D, pressuring Stroud and more
NBC Sports Boston • • sports
Key Points:
- The Patriots face a significant challenge against the Texans' top-ranked defense, particularly their pass rush led by Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter, making offensive line performance critical for New England's success.
- Patriots' defense aims to pressure Texans QB C.J. Stroud, who has struggled under pressure and ranks low in turnover-worthy plays when pressured, though he has performed better against blitzes since returning from injury.
- New England may rely more on heavy personnel packages and running plays to protect quarterback Drake Maye and exploit Houston's struggles against play-action passes and quarterback runs.
- The Patriots could target tight ends Hunter Henry and Austin Hooper in the passing game, as Houston has allowed a high quarterback rating against tight end targets in recent
