The Houston Texans are ready to cap off their best start since 2012 with a road win on Sunday against the New England Patriots.
That’s easier said than done, especially on offense now with Nico Collins sidelined.
Collins will miss four games after being placed on the injured reserve with a hamstring injury suffered in Week 5’s win over the Buffalo Bills. He’s not only been the team’s top target, but the fourth-year pass-catcher also led the NFL in receiving yards with 576.
The Patriots also are throwing a curveball Houston’s way by starting rookie passer Drake Maye. The No. 3 overall pick was expected to see action in 2024, but most thought it would come later in the season.
After a 1-4 start under Jacoby Brissett, New England is speeding up Maye’s process, hoping he’ll learn on the fly against the Texans’ team dealing with several injuries.
The Texans still feature an offense headlined by C.J. Stroud, Tank Dell and Stefon Diggs. Houston also could be getting healthy at running back with Joe Mixon and Dameon Pierce gearing up to play.
Is this a trap game for the AFC South favorites? Can Maye actually be the proper answer in Gillette Stadium on a crisp Sunday afternoon?
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