Ravens will face the Texans in playoff opener. Here’s what you need to know about the matchup.
The Texans’ pass defense is also vulnerable, ranking 23rd in efficiency. While Derek Stingley Jr. is one of the NFL’s most talented young cornerbacks, Houston is also starting safety DeAndre Houston-Carson, who was signed off the Ravens’ practice squad on Halloween. The Texans allowed 91 “explosive” completions this season (gains of at least 16 yards), tied for the sixth most in the NFL, according to TruMedia.
Lineup changes
The Ravens played Houston in their season opener without cornerback Marlon Humphrey (calf), who will likely be available in the divisional round, and tight end Mark Andrews, whose availability is unclear as he recovers from midseason ankle surgery. He was designated to return off injured reserve Friday.
The Ravens lost safety Marcus Williams in Week 1 to a pectoral injury in the second quarter, left tackle Ronnie Stanley to a knee injury in the fourth quarter and running back J.K. Dobbins to a season-ending Achilles tear. Williams and Stanley are set to play in the postseason.
The Texans played their season opener without starting linebacker Blake Cashman, who led the team in tackles during the regular season; starting left guard Juice Scruggs, a second-round pick; and reserve wide receiver John Metchie III, a second-round pick in 2022. All three are expected to play in the divisional round.
Houston rookie wide receiver Tank Dell, who had three catches for 34 yards against the Ravens and finished second on the team this season in receiving yards, suffered a season-ending fibula injury in Week 13. Wide receiver Noah Brown, who was fourth on the team in receiving yards, suffered a season-ending shoulder injury against Cleveland.
