Texans vs Colts: Why T.J. Yates Will Go to Town on Indy's Secondary

After taking over under center four weeks ago, rookie signal-caller T.J. Yates has led the Houston Texans to a 3-1 record, and while he hasn't been outstanding, he has certainly been good enough. But tonight against the 1-13 Indianapolis Colts I expect the North Carolina product to have a breakout game.

In four games so far, Yates has completed 65-of-114 passes (57 percent) for 770 yards, with three touchdowns and three interceptions. His quarterback rating has been a below average 75.0. But in a run-oriented offense that has been enough to get things done for the Texans.

Tonight Yates will be lining up against a Colts team that ranks 24th in the NFL against the pass, allowing 246.4 yards per game. The Colts also have just 22 sacks this season, which ranks 30th in the league.

Yates shouldn't feel a whole lot of pressure and even with star wideout Andre Johnson still on the shelf, I think Yates can find holes in the Indianapolis secondary. 

The Texans will also use running backs Arian Foster and Ben Tate out of the backfield as receivers which will only bolster Yates' numbers. 

Again, Yates may not blow anyone away on a regular basis but tonight, in prime time against a struggling defense I expect him to have a really nice night. 

He has been solid so far this season, now it's time for him to step up his game and show what he can do on national television. The playoffs are only two weeks away and he needs to show he can handle a big-game atmosphere.