A scary Texans defense could be the key to a playoff run

That’s where the Houston Texans can separate themselves from the pack with a top-rated defense and signal-caller.
The darkhorse unit enters the postseason needing to beat prolific offenses to advance, and the first test is a familiar opponent in PFF’s Comeback Player of the Year: Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck.
The Texans are one of two teams to have four defensive players who have 900-plus snaps and an 80.0-plus overall grade (the other being the Bears).
Having already played the Colts twice in the regular season (splitting the series), Clowney and Watt know exactly what they’re up against in PFF’s third-ranked offensive line.
The duo has previously terrorized the Colts’ front, notching 24 of the Texans’ 34 combined pressures in those prior two meetings.
Both receivers own passer ratings when targeted of 95.0 or higher, however, neither Hilton nor Rogers have caught touchdowns against the Texans this season.
The Texans’ defense can generate pressure at a high rate and limit top receivers, which leaves one important facet the NFL’s second-best defensive unit (90.3 grade) will need to emphasize if it wants to claim victory Saturday: the run game.
As a team, the Texans are third among playoff defenses in yards allowed after contact on runs, surrendering an average of 2.34 yards.
So, while the flashy defenses in the playoffs continue to garner praise, the Texans’ remains a darkhorse.
And darkhorses are known to deliver on the biggest stages.