FOXBOROUGH, Mass. —
As the New England Patriots prepare for their next playoff battle, fans are optimistic that the team will be able to find a way past the tough Houston Texans defense.
Sunday’s game will be the third time the Patriots and Texans have met in the playoffs, with the Patriots winning both times.
Houston’s offense is not considered to be that strong, with the team’s offensive line having a tough time this season and one key receiver set to possibly miss the game.
The Texans are known for their tough defense, limiting the Pittsburgh Steelers to just 6 points in the wild card game.
>> PATRIOTS ON WMUR: Patriots to host Texans for next playoff game Sunday at 3 p.m. on WMUR-TV <<
Pittsburgh just gave up. They just totally gave up,” said Richard Carr of Tewksbury, Massachusetts. “That’s what my son says, and he’s a sports aficionado.”
Fans at the Patriots pro shop at Gillette Stadium said they think the Patriots are in for a tough fight but will prevail.
“I think it’s going to be really a battle, and I think it’s going to be a really close game, but I really have a good feeling about this,” said Lisa Johnson of New Bedford, Massachusetts.
Some said they are concerned about the Texans’ defense, while noting that the Patriots’ defense has been solid.
“The defense played great last week,” said Boston College student Ella O’Brien. “So, I think the tests will really be on the offense, what they can do against the Texans D-line.”
The game will be on WMUR-TV at 3 p.m. Sunday.