Houston Texans vs. Minnesota Vikings
Sunday, November 2, 2008, 1pm EST
Metrodome, Minneapolis, MN
Records: Houston 3-4, Minnesota 3-4
Series history: Minnesota leads 1-0.
Five most important things for the Texans:
1. Slow down #28. Adrian Peterson could be the best running back in football, and it would be almost impossible to stop him. The Texans must slow him down and try to limit his big plays.
2. Open it up. The Vikings defense is great against the run, and the Texans strength Bis not running the ball. Open it up, go shotgun and let Schaub throw the ball to all his great targets.
3. Make plays on defense. Gus Frerotte will throw some balls into coverage and the Texans must not only force incompletions, but intercept some of those passes.
4. Win special teams. The Texans have a big advantage on special teams as Minnesota has the worst punt coverage in the NFL, and Houston has the best punt returner in the NFL.
5. Get Andre the ball. Johnson is the reigning AFC Offensive Player of the Month and Houston must find ways to get him the ball.
What to look for:
1. Look for Schaub to play well. Matt Schaub hasn’t played well away from home in his career, but he seems to be growing as a quarterback of late. This could be his time to shine.
2. Look for Adrian Peterson to get over 100. He’s the best and Minnesota force-feeds him the ball. 100 yards is okay for the Texans, but they will lose if he gets 200, or even 300, which is what he’s capable of.
3. Look for Owen Daniels in the end zone. Andre Johnson’s great play opens up the middle for Owen Daniels. Look for the great red zone target to score.
4. Bet the over. Look for these two teams to move the ball well and score points.
5. Look for a big special teams play. All the ingredients are there for a big return, blocked kick, fake, or fumble.
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