WHEN THE PATRIOTS PASS
In the Texans’ past two losses to the Patriots by three and seven points at Gillette Stadium, they’ve done a good job of containing the run, but Tom Brady burned them with eight touchdown passes. Brady has 15 touchdowns, five interceptions and an 88.5 rating this season. He’s as good as there is at moving in the pocket to avoid the rush. He’s been sacked 18 times but shouldn’t have to worry because the Texans can’t generate a consistent pass rush. Brady’s favorite target is slot receiver Julian Edelman, who has a team-best 76 catches for 809 yards and four touchdowns. Phillip Dorsett (26 for 332 and five touchdowns) missed the last game with a concussion. Rookies N’Keal Harry and Jakobi Meyers contributed to the last victory over Dallas. When Mohamed Sanu is able to return from an ankle injury, he’ll give Brady another veteran weapon. Running back James White, who averages 8.4 yards on 49 catches, has torched the Texans in the past. Trying to cover him with a linebacker like Zach Cunningham is going to be difficult because he’s got good hands, runs solid routes and breaks tackles.
Passing yards per game (NFL rank)
NE OFF 260.9 (8th) HOU DEF 259.3 (25th)