Eric Magana 
The NFL Playoffs are finally here. This weekend features the Buffalo Bills coming to Houston to take on the Texans. Who’s got the edge?
It is that time of year folks. The NFL playoffs are here and the matchups are going to be so much fun this year. Especially this four vs. five matchup in Houston coming up.
Speaking of said matchup, let’s preview this game.
Unfortunately, I believe this playoff run will be Bill O’Brien’s last chance to prove he deserves to remain in Houston. Despite that drama, the NFL playoffs offer one thing, a clean slate. Regular season records don’t matter anymore. One more good thing on the Texans side is they have home-field advantage.
I would go as far as to say that the Texans are one of the best home teams in the league. Something about traveling to Foxboro really messes with them. However, the NFL playoffs are also a one-game elimination gauntlet. All it takes is one game to get hot and ride a streak. The Bills, make their first appearance since 1999 and are looking to do just that.
Speaking of the Bills, Houston fans do not have fond memories of the last time Buffalo played a Houston team in the postseason. In fact, take a look at these highlights if you don’t believe me. Anyone remember “The Comeback.” Sorry, H-town.
Let’s hope there is no repeat in this game. Especially here at NRG Stadium. Then the fans in Houston will really be angry.
While they are not playoff-tested, they are tough. Sean McDermott can coach, Josh Allen can play quarterback, and the Bills defense can certainly hold their own against anyone. Oh, and they had a 6-2 road record so there is that. Ah, gotta love the NFL.
On the Texans side, star defensive end J.J. Watt is expected to be activated and play in the game. It feels like it was six or seven weeks ago that he tore his pec and was ruled out for the rest of the season. Nonetheless, he will be out there. Also expected to be back, wide receiver Will Fuller V. As a matter of fact, the Texans are fully healthy and ready to roll.
The Texans run as far as two players take them. One is the aforementioned J.J. Watt, and the second, Deshaun Watson. Luckily for Watson, he will have a healthy receiving core and a capable offensive line to keep him upright. Oh, let’s not forget Carlos Hyde, who ran for over 1000 yards this season and helped keep the offense moving.
We can sit here and talk X’s and O’s, player matchups, and all the good stuff. However, for the Houston Texans to put away their playoff demons, it comes down to one thing. Execution. If Coach O’Brien can mix up some good play calls, if the players can go on the field and execute those plays, and if the Texans can keep their foot on the gas pedal, then this a win on Saturday.
However, I caution Texans fans. Do not underestimate the Bills. They are gonna be a tough out for anyone. The Texans are no different. Despite all of that, I predict the Texans defense gets a big boost from Watt, play hard, the o-line holds up, and Watson plays a great game.
Final score on Saturday, Texans 35, Bills 14. But welcome back Buffalo. The playoffs missed you guys. It’s just that here in Houston, not reaching the AFC Championship game would be a major let down.
For more on the NFL Playoffs as they kickoff, stay tuned to NGSC Sports.
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Author Profile
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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.
