Will The Texans Overcome Division Challenges In '09?

The Texans are in one of the strongest divisions in the league. It includes Peyton Manning and the Colts, Jones-Drew and the Jags, and Jeff Fisher and his Titans.

In 2008, the Texans came up short twice against the Colts, won a franchise-first Monday night game against the Jags, and had a mere one-point home win against the Titans in Week 14.

They lost all divisional away games and must find a way to win in their division on the road.

The only significant change to the Titans roster to mention, is the absence of Albert Haynesworth from the Titans defensive line. Quarterback Matt Schaub threw a dismal 17-for-37 for 188 yards against the Titans on the road last year.

If the Texans can win at least two divisional road games this year, they have a really strong chance at making the playoffs. Changes to the two other divisional opponents worth mentioning are the departure of Colts head coach Tony Dungy and Jacksonville’s addition of All-Pro wide receiver Torry Holt, who is expected to live up to his 20-million dollar, three-year deal.

However, it is yet to be seen what, if any, affect Dungy’s absence will have on his former team. What we do know is that Peyton is hard to beat, but it’s not impossible. The Texans have the defensive force to stop Manning by applying some aggressive front line pressure, forcing him to hand the ball off more to the ailing Joseph Addai.

The key to the Texans success in their division will definitely be their defense. The infamous 2006 decision to pick defensive end Mario Williams first is starting to look better and better by the season.