NFL Season Preview: AFC Dark Horse Playoff Contenders

AFC South Dark Horse: Houston Texans

Consider me a writer who thinks fairly highly of the Texans.

I truly believe the Texans could have made a playoff run if not for the injuries to a few of the star players on the team. Second-year quarterback Deshaun Watson was making a legitimate case for the Rookie of the Year last season until a torn ACL ruined his season after seven games. In seven games he tossed 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions. His return, fully healthy of course, turns the Texans offense into a considerable playoff offense.

An absent J.J. Watt was also a significant reason the Texans had a disappointing 2017 season. Granted, it may have helped the development of defensive end Jadeveon Clowney, who posted a career-high 9.5 sacks.

The free agency signing of safety Tyrann Mathieu adds another difference maker on the field for the Texans defense along with Watt, Clowney and linebackers Whitney Mercilus, Zach Cunningham, and Bernardrick McKinney.

Before their bye in Week 10, the Texans would have faced road games against New England, Tennessee, Denver, and Jacksonville along with home contests against Dallas and Buffalo. For the talented Texans, there are enough encounters on the schedule to have them playoff tested once the postseason arrives.

Does this team have what it takes to give the suddenly dangerous Jacksonville Jaguars a division title push? I think so.