MNF: Texans Perspective

Players to Watch

LB Brian Cushing- After missing four games because of suspension, last years defensive rookie of the year will be back on the field for his third start. The Texans defense, which is last in the NFL in yards allowed, is in desperate need of someone to step up and be a playmaker. With Cushing getting two games under his belt and a bye week to help get him back to form, I expect to see him all over the field making plays in this game.

DE Mario Williams - The key to beating Peyton Manning is getting a lot of pressure on him. That is exactly why the Texans used the first overall pick in the 2006 draft on DE Mario Williams. They need a big game out of Williams tonight, a couple of sacks would go a long way.

RB Arian Foster - Everyone trashed the Colts defense after Foster lit them up in week one and ran for 231 yards. I would expect the Colts defense to come out with a chip on their shoulder and do everything in their power to stop him. It will be interesting to see if Foster can still have a big game against the Colts porous defense.

Key Matchup: WR Andre Johnson vs Colts Secondary

Last game against the Colts, Andre Johnson was held to only 33 yards receiving. Since then Andre Johnson, who in my opinion is the best receiver in the NFL, has been dominant. Even with ankle problems Johnson has put up big numbers. I would be shocked if the Colts defense could shut down Johnson again. Look for him to have a big game against a Colts defense that does not have anyone that can match up with the 6'3" 225 lbs burner.

Why the Texans Will Win: The Texans were 1-15 against the Colts before beating them in week one. I think that win really boosted their confidence and got the monkey off of their back. The Texans should have a different swagger going into this game. It also helps that the Colts will be extremely thin on both sides of the ball tonight, with many key players down with injuries or questionable for the game. Look for this game to be a shootout between two great offenses and two poor defenses. The Texans will be able to pull this one off because they can both run and pass the ball effectively and they have a more talented team tonight.

Prediction: Texans 38 Colts 28