3 Biggest X-Factors For Browns to Bounce Back vs Texans in Week 10

The Cleveland Browns remain one of the bigger surprise teams in the NFL this season, even with how the last two weeks have gone.

Cleveland has now dropped two straight games, seeing their record fall down to 5-4 on the season. Last week, the Browns lost to the New Orleans Saints, falling in in a tough overtime game.

Now, the Browns will be heading home to take on the Houston Texans this week, in what could be a sneaky game. Houston holds a record of 3-5 on the year, but this team has started to slowly creep up the standings after a slow start to the season.

Here are the biggest X-Factors for Cleveland to get back on track this week against the Texans at home:

1. Deshaun Watson Proves Himself

Watson sat out last game due to a concussion, with backup Shedeur Sanders getting the start. But now that the veteran is healthy, he will be reclaiming his starting spot, even with some believing Sanders should be given the nod.

Due to this, Watson is going to have to prove that he belongs as the team's starter, otherwise, calls for Sanders will continue. Watson has done well this year for the Browns, but there will be more pressure than usual on him to break the losing streak.

2. Running Game Has to Get Going

One way that the Browns can help Watson is to get the ground game going, which has been a real problem all year. Running back Quinshon Judkins has been inconsistent, and it has limited what the offense can do on the field.

Against the Texans, Cleveland has to find a way to get the rushing attack going, and this could open up the rest of the offense to score some points. Houston has a strong pass rush, but they have been prone to giving up yards this season.

3. Jared Verse Makes an Impact

Verse has been a main talking point for the Browns this season, with the veteran defensive end struggling this season. Through nine games this year, Verse has failed to record even one sack for Cleveland, posting just 20 total tackles.

But against the Texans, Verse has to show up, finally making an impact for this team when they need it most. If Verse can put together a strong outing against Houston this week, it could provide a massive boost to the entire Browns defense, which needs to show up in this game.