After dropping three of their last four games, the Houston Texans could use a spark. With their bye week just around the corner, this weekend’s matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars may offer the perfect opportunity to regain momentum.
The Texans (7-5), atop the AFC South, head to Jacksonville (2-9) on Sunday in their 13th straight game without a break. For a team that has shown resilience all season, this divisional clash might be exactly what they need to start December on a high note.
“It hasn’t been easy,” said Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud. “We haven’t had any time to just breathe. But that’s the NFL. It’s our job. We’ve got to grind through another tough week, and I think our bye is coming at the perfect time for the team to recharge.”
A History of Dominance
Houston has dominated this rivalry for years, winning 11 of the last 13 matchups and 17 of the past 21, including five straight victories in Jacksonville. The Jaguars, struggling through a four-game losing streak, face an uphill battle to turn things around against a Texans team that has had their number.
Quarterback Trevor Lawrence is expected to return for Jacksonville after missing two games with a sprained shoulder. Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson hinted at possible changes following the team’s bye, though he declined to elaborate on specifics.
“We’re looking to get back to what’s worked for us in the past,” Pederson said. “Whether it’s tempo, rhythm, or adjustments, we’re focused on finding our footing.”
Ground Game Key for Texans
Running back Joe Mixon, who has been a consistent force for Houston this season, is looking to bounce back after being held to a season-low 22 yards on 14 carries last week. Head coach DeMeco Ryans attributed the struggles to poor blocking execution.
“We’ve got to finish blocks, especially on the second level,” Ryans said.
Mixon, who ranks third in the NFL with an average of 87.3 rushing yards per game, will have a favorable matchup against Jacksonville’s defense, which ranks 26th against the run.
Pass Rush Leading the Charge
The Texans’ defense made a statement last week, tying a franchise record with eight sacks against Tennessee. Danielle Hunter led the way with three sacks, while Will Anderson Jr. added two in his return from an ankle injury.
“Our pass rush duo creates chaos,” Ryans said. “Teams are trying everything to slow them down, but they still find ways to make plays.”
Houston’s defense ranks second in the NFL with 42 sacks this season, with Hunter sitting at 10.5 sacks (second in the league) and Anderson close behind at 9.5 (fifth in the league).
A Glimpse of Hope for Jacksonville?
For the Jaguars, this game represents slim playoff hopes and potential job security for Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke. Despite a dismal record, Jacksonville hasn’t been mathematically eliminated, though history doesn’t favor Pederson. Every previous Jaguars coach has been dismissed after losing to an AFC South opponent late in the season or following a losing campaign.
With the Texans hitting their stride defensively and seeking to solidify their division lead, Sunday’s matchup presents a pivotal moment for both teams. For Houston, it’s an opportunity to reestablish dominance before the bye. For Jacksonville, it’s a last chance to salvage a crumbling season.
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