WHEN THEY PASS
WHEN THE COWBOYS PASS
Because of Ezekiel Elliott and their offensive line, the Cowboys’ offense relies heavily on the run. They’re 30th in passing (166.5 yards a game). They’re also 30th in average passing yards per play (5.16). But in their victory over Detroit, offensive coordinator Scott Linehan allowed Dake Prescott to throw the ball down the field more. The Cowboys might use that same strategy after Linehan and coach Jason Garrett watched what the Texans did in the last two games against the Andrew combining Giants Luck and for burned 65-of-91 Colts. the Eli for Manning secondary, 767 yards, and six touchdowns and no interceptions. The Texans have eight sacks in the last two games, including five by J.J. Watt. Jadeveon Clowney is coming off the best game of his career with two sacks and a touchdown. Tyron Smith (left) and La’El Collins are the best pair of tackles the Texans have played against. Watt will get doubled and chipped. Clowney should move around to try to take advantage of matchups.
WHEN THE TEXANS PASS
Deshaun Watson has thrown for 1,077 yards in the last three games. Considering the pressure he’s under because of poor pass protection, most of his throws are made on the move or with defenders bearing down on him. He has to improve at getting rid of the ball. Holding it too long to try to make a play has contributed to his 17 sacks. When he gets protection and throws from the pocket, he’s been deadly utilizing DeAndre Hopkins and Will Fuller, who left the Indianapolis game with another hamstring issue. Rookie Keke Coutee made a tremendous debut against the Colts with 11 catches for 109 yards. He gives the Texans a dangerous weapon in the slot for the first time under Bill O’Brien. If they can keep Hopkins, Fuller and Coutee on the field together, their passing game can be even more prolific. O’Brien needs to throw on first down more and utilize short drops. He called his most creative game at Indianapolis, and the Texans generated 466 yards. Led by end DeMarcus Lawrence (5½), the Cowboys have 14 sacks. The Colts sacked Watson seven times.