The fifth-seed Chargers head to Houston to take on the 4th seeded Texans. The Texans limped into the playoffs and are lucky they play in such a weak division, while the Chargers finished strong. Their first season under head coach Jim Harbaugh was a big success, and they will look to parlay it into playoff success, too.
When the Chargers have the ball:
Justin Herbert has thrived in Greg Roman’s offense. He’s shown more mobility this year than in seasons past, which has given his game another dimension. The Texans have been very strong against opposing running backs, so Herbert might have about 30 to 40 rushing yards in this game.
Running Attack:
JK Dobbins surprised people with his ability to stay healthy for most of the season. He’s given the Chargers a lift with his explosive running as well as his pass-catching ability. The Texans defense has been solid against the run, so look for Dobbins to have 15 to 18 touches, but don’t expect a huge game from him.
Elite Rookie:
It is without question that Ladd McConkey has been a top-three rookie wide receiver in the league this year. He is Justin Herbert’s go-to guy in critical situations and runs exceptional routes. He should be able to dominate the Texans defense, which struggles against slot receivers. Quentin Johnston is very inconsistent: In some games, he makes amazing plays, and sometimes, he has some bad drops. He’s going to need to hold on to the ball if the Chargers want to win.
When the Texans have the ball:
After having a phenomenal rookie season, second-year quarterback CJ Stroud has regressed slightly. It’s probably not as much Stroud’s fault as it’s been the fact that his receivers have been injured. The Chargers play a very difficult zone concept scheme, and they have an excellent pass rush with Joey Bosa on the outside. Stroud is going to need to be at his best if the Texans want any chance to win.
Mixon Needs To Carry The Load:
When the Texans were playing well in the beginning of the season Joe Mixon was running for well over 100 yards per game and had multiple touchdowns. Teams got wise to what the Texans wanted to do and started putting more men in the box to stop him. It is likely the Chargers will probably do the same and force Stroud to beat them with his arm.
Other Texans Playmakers:
Nico Collins is one of the top five receivers in the NFL and can dominate against any type of defensive coverage. The Texans brought in Diontae Johnson recently after Tank Dell was ruled out for the year. Johnson has all the ability in the world, but he’s not yet In sync with Stroud and doesn’t know the offense entirely. They’re going to need him to step up and play like the receiver he can be if they want any chance to win.
Prediction:
The Chargers just have too much on both sides of the football and should be able to beat the Texans.
