The NFL’s epidemic of injured starting quarterbacks has already left its mark on the playoff picture, putting harsh ceilings on otherwise talented teams and exposing the public to some ugly football. That trend is likely to continue on Sunday, when the Houston Texans (8-6) host the Cleveland Browns (9-5). It may not live up to the storylines schedule makers hoped for when scheduling the two for a Week 16 matchup, but playoff implications are rife enough to keep this one interesting.
Houston will try to save their season once more, this time with veteran quarterback Case Keenum at the helm. He played well enough to win against the Tennessee Titans, but it took all of overtime and heroic performances from tight end Dalton Schultz, running back Devin Singletary, and a slew of other players. The Texans will have to improve on Sunday. The Browns, led by starting backup Joe Flacco, are more dangerous than the Titans.
Their defense leads the league in expected points added per play and success rate, dominating opposing offenses with superstar edge rusher Myles Garrett and one of the league’s best back-sevens. Things could get messy quickly if Houston does not challenge Cleveland downfield to create opportunities for Singletary. On the other hand, it’s clear that the Browns aren’t as dynamic as they could be. When Deshaun Watson was on the field, he wasn’t great, and three quarterbacks later, it’s up to Flacco to work some playoff-like magic. Expect plenty of play-action passes when the Texans are in their base 4-3 formation, which has been their weakest link. ‘Experience!’ is related. Key to Case Keenum’s Success in 2023 Revealed by DeMeco Ryans A couple of big plays could mean the difference in a game that looks like it’s going to come down to the wire. Nobody wants Houston’s playoff chances to fade with rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud on the bench. It will take a team effort to ensure he has another week to keep the Texans in contention for the playoffs.
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