"Bowen: With Nico Collins (concussion) out, Christian Kirk, who had 144 yards receiving in the wild-card win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, Xavier Hutchinson and rookie Jayden Higgins will move up as targets for quarterback C.J. Stroud. With a Houston rushing attack featuring Woody Marks and a heavy zone-scheme approach, the Texans can mirror the pass game to set up play-action throws for Stroud, as they will have to generate explosive plays down the field."
"Bowen: Led by quarterback Drake Maye, the Patriots will need answers for man coverage and two-deep zone versus a loaded Texans defense. Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels can scheme for Maye to play as a three-level ball distributor, while running backs Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson have the dual-threat ability to make impact plays for this offense. Edge: Texans Best bet: Rhamondre Stevenson OVER 21.5 receiving yards (-112). Stevenson has 55 or more receiving yards in two of his past three games."
Both teams enter the divisional round with top-10 defenses and coming off wild-card victories. Houston will adjust with Nico Collins out, elevating Christian Kirk, Xavier Hutchinson and rookie Jayden Higgins as primary targets for C.J. Stroud. Houston plans a heavy zone-based rushing attack featuring Woody Marks to create play-action opportunities and explosive downfield shots. New England will rely on rookie quarterback Drake Maye to work against man coverage and two-deep looks while Josh McDaniels schemes three-level distributions. Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson provide receiving and rushing versatility, with Stevenson projected as Maye’s primary checkdown outlet.
Read at ESPN.com
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