Patriots vs. Texans: 6 Bold Predictions

Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

1. Pats’ run defense won’t allow 40 rush yards

The Patriots’ run defense has been full of holes in recent weeks, surrendering 175 yards on the ground to the Broncos and 129 to the Eagles last week. When the Pats can’t stop the run, big problems emerge, and that was evident on the scoreboard in both games.

One of the main factors in the Patriots’ recent struggles against the run has been the absence of Dont’a Hightower. Well, there is reason to believe that Hightower will return to action after missing the Eagles game, as he practiced in limited form on Wednesday. With Hightower back in the lineup alongside Collins, the Patriots will suffocate a Texans ground game, one which ranks second-worst in the league allowing 3.5 yards per carry.

With the run threat in check and Hoyer throwing three picks, the Patriots’ defense will have an extraordinary day. Johnson’s kick return touchdown will provide a jolt at the beginning of the third quarter, and Martin’s touchdown against his former team will add on to the Patriots’ lead in this game. The Texans will stop a few drives and force a turnover as a result of Watt being Watt, but this game will go the way of the Patriots, ending their uncharacteristic losing streak.

Next: Week 14 AFC Power Rankings: Pats fall to No. 3

Final score prediction: Patriots 31, Texans 14