US EditionTexans Pass Rush Presents Big Challenge for Patriots
The Texans’ defensive line, featuring two elite edge rushers, has generated 47 sacks and multiple defensive touchdowns this season, dominating opponents with disciplined four-man rushes.
- On Sunday, the Texans visit the Patriots with Will Anderson Jr., Danielle Hunter, Sheldon Rankins and Tommy Togiai leading a front four that can send Houston to its first AFC championship with a win.
- Relying on discipline and execution, Houston prefers coordinated four-man rushes over heavy blitzing, with Texans defensive line coach Rod Wright and players stressing everyone must do their job and rush as one.
- Stat lines from Monday's game — four sacks, a dozen hits and two forced fumbles — illustrate the line's game-changing plays, with Anderson and Hunter combining for 27 sacks in the regular season.
- Opponents face a matchup problem because Houston offers multiple dangerous one-on-one pass rushers, forcing blockers to choose who to chip and leaving other Texans' complementary pass rushers unblocked.
- Houston rarely blitzes because its front four produces pressure, and that philosophy will be tested Sunday against mobile 23-year-old Drake Maye, who has 450 rushing yards this season.
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18 Articles
Central Maine News
Portland Press HeraldTexans pass rush presents big challenge for Patriots
New England faces a Houston pass rush that its coach describes as 'four Tasmanian devils,' in the AFC divisional round.
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