With many playmakers upfront for the Steelers, the Texans' offensive line will have to hold their own to secure a wildcard win.
One of the key matchups in the Monday Night Wildcard game between the Texans and the Steelers is between the Pittsburgh pass-rushing depth and the Texans' inconsistent offensive line. Whether on the edges or in the interior, it seems a Steeler is always making a timely play. And that's where some statistics are deceiving.
The Steelers' defense is underwhelming in statistical rankings for yards allowed, but their opportunistic nature and quality of playmakers could pose a challenge for Houston. The Steelers boast a +12 turnover margin with 15 interceptions and 12 fumble recoveries. T.J. Watt, back from a lung injury, is at the top of the list of playmakers who can wreck a play, series, or game. Until Myles Garrett broke the sack record this season, Watt was on equal footing with Michael Strahan at the top of the record books.
In the interior, Cam Heyward is still dangerous and going strong at 36 years young. The former all-pro renegotiated his contract this season. I bet the Steelers are happy they kept him around because he continues to be an immovable force. He ranked 13th in pass-rush grade according to Pro Football Focus. The Texans rank only 22nd in rushing yards per game and shouldn't expect to move the ball on the ground versus this Steelers group. With a lack of a true playmaker out of the backfield, this should be a matchup where the Steelers come in with an advantage.
Also, as a part of the impressive front seven, Alex Highsmith tallied 9.5 sacks and a forced fumble as part of an amazing campaign. With Watt coming from the other side, this will be quite a challenge for the Texans' offensive line, which is still a weakness on the squad. The underrated Nick Herbig will also be coming. He just completed a season with 7.5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and an interception. The Steelers are loaded upfront. He ended up with a Steelers-best top ten Pro Football Focus pass-rush grade. Ignore him at your own peril.
Jalen Ramsey is tried and true at safety. He had 3 sacks himself as an effective blitzer in his new role as safety, and he is also a solid tackler. As ever, he can also still hold his own in the passing game. A low-key season in coverage with 8 passes defended and 1 interception, but don't let numbers fool you with this grizzled veteran.
How much the Texans can keep these playmakers in check will mean everything in terms of advancing to a third straight divisional round game.