Houston, their defense is a problem
Unfortunately for a returning Smith and his offense, the Houston Texans are a well-oiled machine on defense.
Heading into Week 16, the Texans rank No. 1 in fewest points (228) and yards (3,769) allowed to opposing offenses. They also rank top 10 in the league in interceptions (16), quarterback sacks (38) and tackles for loss (73). The Texans’ starting edge rushers, Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter, are the only teammates in the NFL with double-digit sack totals. Houston also has three defensive backs with double-digit passes defensed – Kamari Lassiter, Jalen Pitre and All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley Jr.
Meanwhile, the Raiders offense has scored the fewest points (196) and totaled the least yards (3,418) this season.
“They’re good on all three levels,” quarterbacks coach Greg Olson said of Houston’s defense. “Really their D-line and linebackers and secondary are playing really, really well right now. So, it’s not a surprise when you watch them on tape as to where they’re at right now defensively and statistically across the board. They’re good in a lot of areas.”