The NFL Playoffs kick off this Saturday, and fans in Cleveland and Houston are on the edge of their seats as the Texans vs Browns square off for Wild Card Weekend. This isn't just any matchup; it's a rematch with high stakes after their Week 16 showdown where the Browns dominated 36-7. But with rookie QB sensation C.J. Stroud returning for the Texans, the script has flipped, making this Texans vs Browns clash a must-watch event.
Rematch with a Twist: Remember Week 16's blowout? Forget it. Texans vs Browns 2.0 features Stroud, who threw for over 4,100 yards and 23 touchdowns as a rookie, injecting a potent spark into the Houston offense.
Defense vs. Rookie QB: The Browns boast the league's top-ranked pass defense, a formidable test for Stroud's postseason debut. Can he handle the pressure and deliver against Denzel Ward and Co.?
Flacco's Farewell Ride?: Veteran QB Joe Flacco has been on fire, lighting up the Texans for 265 yards and a touchdown in their first meeting. Can he replicate that magic and lead the Browns to victory in what could be his final playoff run?
More Than Just Stroud: Don't sleep on the Texans' stingy defense, ranked 4th in fewest passing touchdowns allowed. Can they contain Amari Cooper, David Njoku, and the Browns' potent aerial attack?
DBN staff weighs in on this Texans vs Browns showdown:
Chris Pokorny: Browns 27, Texans 20 - "Cleveland's defense thrives, and Stroud struggles against their elite pass rush."
Thomas Moore: Browns 28, Texans 24 - "A closer battle, but the Browns' experience and defensive edge prevail."
Barry Shuck: Browns 24, Texans 20 - "Low-scoring affair, with Cleveland's passing game and Houston's defense key factors."
Jared Mueller: Browns 28, Texans 21 - "Talent and experience favor the Browns, but Stroud adds intrigue to the Texans' offense."
Curtiss Brown: Browns 23, Texans 16 - "Expect a tighter contest than anticipated, with Cleveland pulling away late."
Ezweav: Browns 24, Texans 17 - "Browns exploit what worked in Week 16, while Stroud faces a tough matchup against Cleveland's defensive scheme."
Date: Saturday, January 13th
Time: 4:30 PM ET
TV: NBC
Live Stream: Peacock, Sling TV, FuboTV
This Wild Card showdown promises to be a nail-biter with high stakes for both teams. Will the Browns capitalize on their Week 16 dominance and advance? Or will Stroud lead the Texans to a stunning upset and rewrite the narrative? Tune in this Saturday for a Texans vs Browns clash you won't want to miss!
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img via: AP