The Kansas City Chiefs are looking to make a deep playoff run this year and it starts with their revamped defense.
With the return of Eric Berry and the resigning of Justin Houston the Chiefs have helped solidify their core and they will continue to get better as a defensive unit. On the offensive side of the ball the Chiefs signed Jeremy Maclin and drafted Chris Conley, two guys who should help the Chiefs achieve some offensive success. The Texans on the other hand had to deal with a crushing blow when Arian Foster tore his groin before the preseason began.
This has left a gaping hole at running back and has forced the Texans to fill it with Alfred Blue, Chris Polk, and Jonathan Grimes. None of these backs has jumped out as a replacement and this puts the Texans in a bad situation to start the season. Fosters return date is anywhere from week 5 to week 10 so establishing the run will be difficult early in the season. The Texans new starting quarterback Brian Hoyer will look to make a name for himself and hold onto the position permanently.
Playmakers to look out for:
JJ Watt: Watt is the best defensive player in the NFL and can catch touchdowns as a tight end, if anyone can win this game for the Texans he can.
Justin Houston: Justin Houston is the JJ Watt of Kansas City and currently has a higher salary. Houston is a disruptive force that will make life difficult for Brian Hoyer and the Texans offensive line.
Jeremy Maclin: Maclin is the newest Chief who will look to bring some success to his former coach Andy Reid. Maclin is a dynamic wide receiver who will kick start this Kansas City offense.
Jamaal Charles: Charles is the Chiefs leading running back and overall star. Charles will look to slip through some holes that the Texans defense cannot fill. Needless to say Watt vs Charles 1 on 1 in the open field would be a joy to watch.
DeAndre Hopkins: Hopkins is looking to solidify himself in the next tier of wide receiver in the NFL. Hopkins may be the best on the Texans but he will need a couple of solid seasons to say he is the best in the league. It will be interesting to watch the chemistry between him and Brian Hoyer.