Kansas City Chiefs vs Houston Texans: 2015 NFL Wild Card Round: Prediction/ Breakdown
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Keys to victory for Kansas City Chiefs
In order for the Kansas City Chiefs to beat the Houston Texans, they have to call a good amount of running plays that are designed to go right up the middle of the Houston Texans defense. This is because the Texans tend to leave a big hole wide open in the middle of defensive line when opposing teams are running the ball against them. This big hole in the middle of defensive line can be attributed to the declining play of Vince Wilfork; throughout the course of this season, Wilfork has lost some of his quickness and strength, which has resulted in him not being able to get to the running back as fast as he once did and not having the strength to take on double teams anymore. As a result of this, the Texans are giving up 3.72 yards a carry on runs that are considered up the middle or behind one of the guards according to football outsiders.
On the other hand, when it comes to passing game they should focus on quick passing plays like screens and slants because the Houston Texans defense is not very good at finishing up a tackle. As a result, it would benefit Alex Smith to get the ball out as quickly as possible so that his wide receivers can catch the ball in as much open space as possible. This will allow them to use their speed to get out of potential tackles.
Keys to victory for Houston Texans
In order for the Houston Texans to beat the Kansas City Chiefs, they have to call a good amount of short to intermediate pass plays. This is the result of the Kansas City Chiefs secondary tending to give opposing wide receivers a 5-10 yard cushion to avoid getting beat over the top. The Texans should design plays that have short out, drag and curls routes to take advantage of the 5-10 yard cushion. If the secondary starts to move up and play closer to the wide receivers, then the Texans can attempt a pass downfield. In terms of running game, it will be almost non-existent because Alfred Blue likes to wait until a hole develops before he attacks. That is going to be hard to sustain against the Chiefs since the Chiefs' defensive line does a solid job of getting off their blocks and getting into the backfield.
Ultimately the Kansas City Chiefs will run the ball right up the middle of the Houston Texans defense with success which will lead to the Chiefs controlling time of possession and winning the game.
Winner: Kansas City Chiefs
Cincinnati Bengals Vs Pittsburgh Steelers: 2015 NFL Wild Card Round: Prediction/ Breakdown https://t.co/pfr77J9qR1 via @SportsBlog
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