NFL Playoff Preview: How the Buffalo Bills stack up against the Houston Texans
Biggest X-Factors?
J.J. Watt and Tre’Davious White. Two polarizing defensive players that, when on top of their game, can singlehandedly dominate on the defensive side of the football.
If Watt establishes an early presence and pressures Allen throughout the game, Buffalo’s offense could struggle mightily. This is something Sean McDermott believes will be a key factor on Saturday.
"“I mean you look at their playmakers JJ being one of them, he’s just one of many on the defensive side and the offensive side, special teams. They’ve got quite a few guys that can make plays and he’s a game changer he really is,” said McDermott to BuffaloBills.com. “So is Deshaun (Watson) and (Whitney) Mercilus the same way and the list goes on. So they’ve got some real game-changing type players on the roster and that in and of itself can be a challenge for us.”"
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If White locks down Hopkins and grabs an interception or two, he could seal Houston’s fate all by himself. Of course, he won’t be asked to do it all by himself.
We have seen the impact that defenses can have during the NFL playoffs, just look back to last year’s Super Bowl.
This playoff game should be excellent television as two teams who match up very well duel for a spot in the Divisional Round. Kickoff is at 4:35 PM EST on Saturday at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.
The Bills will also be hosting a playoff watch party at the (716) Foor and Sport at LECOM Harborcenter.
Who do you give the advantage to heading into the Wild Card game? Let us know in the comments below.