"The best way to neutralize a fast, disciplined pass rush is to run directly at it, forcing defenders to play downhill, tackle consistently, and defend inside-out rather than pinning their ears back. That approach also slows the Texans' perimeter athletes and creates downstream benefits in the passing game, particularly by forcing linebackers into coverage against tight ends and stressing defensive backs in the run support phase."
"It wasn't pretty, a 16-3 scoreline reflected that, but it was effective, and you don't apologize for winning playoff games at the end of the day. Maye finished with 66 rushing yards, extending drives and punishing defenders when they turned their backs. Rhamondre Stevenson carried the rock 10 times for 53 yards, doing the unglamorous work between the tackles. TreVeyon Henderson added just 27 yards, yet his speed and burst altered pursuit angles and forced the defense to respect the edge."
New England's best path against Houston's premier defense is restraint and a run-first approach rather than high-volume passing. Running directly at Houston's fast, disciplined pass rush forces defenders to play downhill, tackle consistently, and defend inside-out, while slowing perimeter athletes and creating passing advantages by forcing linebackers into coverage. Last week's wild-card win against the Chargers showed this method: Maye provided 66 rushing yards and extended drives, Rhamondre Stevenson handled power runs between the tackles, and TreVeyon Henderson's speed altered pursuit angles. Consistent second-and-five situations open the playbook and allow play-action, tight-end mismatches, and manageable down-and-distance for Maye. Balanced, ground-driven offense protects Maye and limits Houston's pass-rush opportunities.
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