Why Texans-Chiefs AFC showdown means more than you think
STAKES ARE HIGH!
19 December 2024
The Chiefs host the Texans this Saturday. Composite Getty Image.
When the Texans take the field against KC this Saturday, there's a lot more on the line than just playoff seating. The Texans have several things to prove this week against the NFL's elite.
For instance, the Texans haven't beaten a quality team on the road all season, with communication issues on the offensive line often causing problems. If Houston wants to be a legit contender, they have to show they can play with the big boys on the road.
Speaking of which, despite already locking up their division, the Texans typically don't crack the Top 10 in power rankings. They are very much viewed as a team that's good enough to win a weak division, and nothing more.
A win over Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs would make a statement. That would mean the Texans would have beaten both Mahomes and MVP favorite Josh Allen in the same season.
And let's face it, these are the types of teams the Texans will have to defeat in the postseason if they want to contend for a conference championship.
*Don't miss the video above as the crew from Texans on Tap breaks it all down!
Game Preview: Houston Texans vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Texans passing offense
C.J. Stroud continues to impress with his ability to make big plays, particularly on scramble drills and broken plays. However, consistent pressure has been an issue, with Stroud taking four sacks last week against the Dolphins. This marks the seventh time this season he’s been sacked four or more times. Chiefs defensive lineman Chris Jones, known for his elite disruptive ability, could create significant problems.
Texans run game
Running back Joe Mixon started the season strong, rushing for over 100 yards in five of his first six games. However, his recent performances have been less effective, with fewer than 47 rushing yards in three of his last five outings. Mixon was held to just 26 yards on the ground against the Dolphins, which raises questions about his ability to bounce back against a Chiefs defense that has been dominant lately.
Chiefs defense
Kansas City's defense has been on a tear, holding opponents to under 18 points in three straight games. Last week, they recorded four interceptions, five sacks, and 11 QB hits against the Browns. While the Chiefs’ secondary has been opportunistic, their pass rush could be the deciding factor, particularly if they exploit Houston's shaky pass protection.
Texans defense
The Texans’ defense has been solid in recent weeks, holding opponents to under 21 points in three of their last four games. They'll need to keep that momentum going against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs’ offense. While Kansas City allowed no sacks last week, they faced significant pressure, something Houston will need to replicate to disrupt Mahomes' rhythm.
What does Vegas think?
The Chiefs are favored by 3.5 and the total is set at 42 points.
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*ChatGPT assisted with this content.
Houston puts 11-game win streak on the line in clash with Kansas
Jan 24, 2025, 11:14 am
No. 7 Houston Cougars (15-3, 7-0 Big 12) at No. 12 Kansas Jayhawks (14-4, 5-2 Big 12)
Where: Allen Fieldhouse, Lawrence, Kansas
When: Saturday, 6:30 p.m. EST
BOTTOM LINE
The Houston Cougars look to extend their impressive 11-game win streak as they visit the Kansas Jayhawks in a marquee Big 12 showdown. Houston, sitting undefeated in conference play, will face one of their toughest tests of the season against a Kansas team that’s nearly unbeatable at home.
SCOUTING THE JAYHAWKS
Kansas comes into the game with a 9-1 record at Allen Fieldhouse, where their stifling defense has been a major factor. The Jayhawks rank third in the Big 12 in scoring defense, holding opponents to just 63.3 points per game and an icy 37.6% shooting from the field. Offensively, Kansas leans on big man Hunter Dickinson, who is averaging 16.8 points and shooting 52.5% over his last 10 games. Zeke Mayo provides a dangerous perimeter threat, connecting on 37.7% of his three-point attempts while contributing 14.9 points per game.
COUGARS ON A ROLL
Houston’s defense has been its calling card all season, and it’s been a nightmare for opponents. Offensively, LJ Cryer has been a consistent force for Houston, averaging 13.8 points per game, while Emanuel Sharp has stepped up recently, scoring 11.7 points per game on 46.7% shooting over his last 10 outings. The Cougars' balanced attack and ability to lock down opponents have made them one of the most feared teams in the Big 12.
KEY MATCHUP
The battle inside will be pivotal, with Houston’s defense aiming to neutralize Dickinson, Kansas' dominant post presence. Kansas’ ability to shoot 48.2% from the field—12.9 percentage points better than Houston allows—will be tested against the Cougars' elite defensive unit. Conversely, Houston’s offense must find ways to crack Kansas’ disciplined defense, which has limited opponents to 37.6% shooting.
WHAT TO WATCH
This game marks the first meeting between the two teams in conference play and promises to be a tightly contested battle between two of the Big 12’s best. Kansas will look to protect its home court, while Houston aims to prove its dominance on the road and stay unbeaten in the conference.
PREDICTION
Both teams are elite on defense, but Houston’s ability to force opponents into tough shots and capitalize on turnovers could give them a slight edge. If the Cougars can control the tempo and keep Dickinson in check, they could leave Allen Fieldhouse with a signature win. Expect a hard-fought contest that may come down to the final possession.
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*ChatGPT assisted with this content.
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