Texans vs. Saints Monday Night Preview

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The NFL season is among us once again. The Texans open up in New Orleans against the Saints for the first Monday night of the season.

Week 1 is set to be a big one for the Texans. It is an opportunity to make a statement. Despite some of the offseason issues, this team is no doubt looking to be contenders and not pretenders. However, that is no easy task. Even after Andrew Luck retired, there are still plenty of tough teams to get through. In fact, test number one is Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints in NOLA.

There are a number of things to look out for in this game. For starters, how will some of the new additions fit in so quickly? Will the loss of Jadeveon Clowney sting hard? Can the Texans offensive line really protect Deshaun Watson? Finally, will the pressure prove too much for Bill O’Brien?

A look at the roster

While the subject of defense is still on, Monday night will prove to be a huge test for this squad. No doubt, the Saints are looking to run all over this defense. They for sure will have to really be prepared if they are to make a statement.

While Clowney is gone, there are still some decent names on this defense to be aware of. Of course, J.J. Watt is manning the frontline. There is also Carlos Watkins helping him on the other end and the feisty and reliable Johnathan Joseph continues at cornerback. However, most of the defense is young and inexperienced. But, they are a promising group nonetheless.

Unfortunately, the loss of Clowney will be felt against the Saints. If the defense can’t get to Brees and slow down Pro Bowl receiver Michael Thomas, it’ll be a long night. Luckily, there also is the safety blanket known as Whitney Mercilus to help out.

Meanwhile, on offense, there are also questions. Can someone else besides DeAndre Hopkins make an impact? It’s possible. If Will Fuller V can improve he’s a candidate to help. Perhaps new arrival Kenny Stills will be a solid helper. They are unknown at this point, but the potential to step up is there. Only time will tell at this point. Monday night will prove a great test.

The offense will feel the loss of Pro Bowl running back Lamar Miller after his preseason injury. Yes, Duke Johnson Jr. is a fine addition, but replacing Miller is near impossible.

Can Laremy Tunsil be a difference maker?

On the bright side, the Texans did improve on the offensive line. An area they desperately needed help at. Laremy Tunsil should provide some help for Johnson in the running lanes. However, the more important reason Tunsil is now a Texan is simple. Protect star quarterback Deshaun Watson.

There is a fine line the Texans are walking here. One bad hit to Watson and it could be all over. While last season he took a beating, Watson managed to lead the Texans to an AFC South title and the playoffs. However, if the mission is to make and win the Super Bowl, Watson must be healthy and protected.

With all of that in mind, Tunsil should aid in keeping Watson on his feet. That is a recipe for success. If Tunsil can stay healthy and be productive, this is gonna be a fun year.

Monday night prediction

One thing for sure, it’s going to be one hell of a Monday night opener in New Orleans. The Saints remember how they were “robbed” against the Rams, meanwhile, the Texans showed they can win a lot of games in a hurry. However, it would be nice for one of these teams to start with a win.

With that said, it will be a dog fight in the superdome. Expect a loud crowd and an explosive Saints offense ready to fire. The Texans need every second of preparation they can afford. I also believe the Houston offense and defense will be ready too.

At the end of the game, the score will be 37-31 in favor of Houston. That’s right folks you heard it here at NGSC Sports first. The Texans will win the game and show some discipline along the way.

While that is a big game the season is off to an exciting start. We here at NGSC Sports will be on top of all things NFL and Texans related. Because here, we never stop.

Stay tuned for the latest on all sports, especially NFL related, as the season gets underway. It’s going to be a fun one.

Get ready Texans nation. Bulls on parade are back.

Until next time.

About Post Author

Eric Magana

Hardworking, loyal, and passionate. I love the people that surround me because they allow me to be who I am. A lover of sports, video games, and life itself. I am a son, a brother, an uncle, and a person who holds nothing but love in his heart. I do this for Rosa Maria Magana and Edward Magana. A.k.a my folks in heaven. Music and sports keep me alive and well. Houston, Texas.

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