Next Playoff Opponent for Houston Texans: Who’s Next in the Gridiron Battle?
Prologue
The Houston Texans have clinched their first AFC South title since 2019 and will host a playoff game at NRG Stadium for the first time since that season. With the No. 3 seed in the conference, the Texans will face the winner of the Wild Card Round matchup between the No. 6 seed Baltimore Ravens and No. 7 seed Pittsburgh Steelers.
Both the Ravens and Steelers present unique challenges for the Texans, and their path to the Divisional Round will depend on which team they face.
Baltimore Ravens: A Familiar Foe
The Texans and Ravens have faced each other twice this season, with each team winning once. The Ravens won the first meeting in Baltimore in Week 2, 33-16, while the Texans won the rematch in Houston in Week 12, 27-20.
The Ravens are led by quarterback Lamar Jackson, who is one of the most dynamic players in the NFL. Jackson is a threat to run and pass, and he has accounted for over 3,000 yards and 30 touchdowns this season.
The Ravens also have a strong defense, led by cornerback Marlon Humphrey and linebacker Patrick Queen. Humphrey is one of the best corners in the NFL, and Queen is a rising star who led the team in tackles this season.
Strengths
- Dynamic offense led by Lamar Jackson
- Strong defense with playmakers at all three levels
- Experience in big games
Weaknesses
- Offensive line has struggled at times this season
- Secondary has been susceptible to big plays
- Can be prone to turnovers
Pittsburgh Steelers: A Resurgent Rival
The Steelers have been one of the hottest teams in the NFL since their bye week in Week 9. Pittsburgh has won seven of their last nine games, including a 28-24 victory over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 17.
The Steelers are led by quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who is in his 18th and final season in the NFL. Roethlisberger is one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, and he has led the Steelers to two Super Bowl victories.
The Steelers also have a strong defense, led by linebacker T.J. Watt and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. Watt is one of the best pass rushers in the NFL, and Fitzpatrick is a playmaker in the secondary.
Strengths
- Veteran leadership from Ben Roethlisberger
- Strong defense with playmakers at all three levels
- Experience in big games
Weaknesses
- Offensive line has struggled at times this season
- Secondary has been susceptible to big plays
- Can be prone to turnovers
Conclusion
The Houston Texans will host a playoff game for the first time since 2019 when they face either the Baltimore Ravens or Pittsburgh Steelers in the Wild Card Round. Both teams present unique challenges for the Texans, and their path to the Divisional Round will depend on which team they face.
If the Texans face the Ravens, they will need to find a way to contain Lamar Jackson and the Ravens’ high-powered offense. The Texans’ defense will also need to be able to generate pressure on Jackson and force him into mistakes.
If the Texans face the Steelers, they will need to find a way to slow down Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers’ passing attack. The Texans’ defense will also need to be able to contain running back Najee Harris and the Steelers’ ground game.
The Texans have a talented team, but they will need to play their best game in order to advance in the playoffs. The Texans have a chance to make a deep run in the playoffs, but they will need to be ready for a tough challenge in the Wild Card Round.
