Rams (6-1) at Texans (1-6)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, NRG Stadium, Houston
TV: Fox
Tipico Sportsbook line: Rams by 14 ⁄2
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Rams’ keys to the game: Los Angeles will look to control the tempo with QB Matthew Stafford. The Rams can methodically move the ball with RB Darrell Henderson or they can use Stafford and the passing attack to bury Houston early. WR Cooper Kupp and TE Tyler Higbee can easily hit the soft zones in Houston’s Cover 2 defense to move the chains. CB Jalen Ramsey will need to shut down Houston’s best receiver while the defensive line stifles the rushing attack.
Texans’ keys to the game: Penalties and turnovers have been a huge problem. The offense can’t afford any pre-snap penalties with a rookie quarterback and facing a juggernaut defense. The Texans need QB Davis Mills to throw quick passes and screens to neutralize the Rams’ pass rush. WR Brandin Cooks has been the lone consistent element on offense, and Houston must put the ball in his hands. The running game needs to hit the perimeter and avoid trying to find gains inside.
Matchup to watch: Rams DT Aaron Donald vs. Texans’ interior offensive line. Houston doesn’t have an All-Pro center or guard to shut down Donald, and the threetime NFL Defensive Player of the Year could have a big day against an anemic line and rookie quarterback.
Who wins? The Texans are giving snaps to younger players, making 2021 a glorified roster evaluation. Meanwhile, the Rams must amass as many wins as possible to stay competitive in an elite NFC West that features an undefeated team on top.
Rams, 33-9