Texans-Bears: What to watch
Battle in trenches looms large
| Houston at Chicago | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
![]() | When: 8:20 PM ET Watch: NBC Preview | ![]() | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
After watching film of both teams, Scouts Inc. breaks down key elements of the Week 10 Texans-Bears matchup.
• Win up front: Although it might not be at the standard it was in 2011, Houston still has an excellent offensive line. But it is in for a very difficult challenge against the best defensive line in the NFL. Not only is Chicago's defensive line very deep, very talented and productive, but it is also very versatile and excels with designed movement, such as stunts and slants. The Bears are able to align linemen like Henry Melton and Julius Peppers all over their front to find the matchups they like best for their stars. This defensive line is great at disrupting throwing lanes and tipping passes. Duane Brown might be the best offensive lineman in the league. He won't have an easy time, often against Peppers, but Houston will have to help the right side of its line, leaving Brown on his own more often than not. Also, Houston's Chris Myers is among the best centers in football, but he will be challenged in a huge way against a Chicago D that specializes in A-gap pressure and perceived A-gap pressure. This matchup of strength versus strength could decide the outcome.
To continue reading this article you must be an Insider




