Game Prediction
This game is a good matchup for the Raiders. The offense should be able to move the ball fairly easy, especially if they can keep JJ Watt at bay. The addition of Gareon Conley will not help the Texans this week, and their injuries clearly will hurt them, as well.
If the Raiders pass rush can get to Deshaun Watson, this should be a similar game to the Colts vs Texans last week. Hopkins will get his catches and yards, but the Raiders can keep him out of the end zone if they do not give Watson time to throw.
The Raiders struggled with pass rush and coverage against the Packers, but the two teams’ offensive lines are not even comparable. Deshaun Watson has been sacked 21 times this year, and that is with his incredible ability to escape sacks. The Green Bay Packers have only allowed 12 sacks on the season, so there is no wonder why the Raiders could not get to Aaron Rodgers.
The Raiders will also not need a great group of receivers for the team to put up points on the Texans, as the Colts dominated the Texans secondary with Zach Paschal and Eric Ebron. Expect a big day out of Darren Waller and a lesser-known receiver such as Trevor Davis or Keelan Doss.
The Raiders will get out to a big lead against the Texans, putting up points early and often, but they will do what they often do and relax. Deshaun Watson will attempt to mount a late comeback, but the Raiders defense will step up in the closing seconds, winning a closely contested game and getting the Raiders back in the win column.