This game is an absolute must win for the Bills to keep whatever chances they have left for the playoffs alive. The Texans have been hot of late winning their last four games, right in the thick of both the wild card and the top of the woeful AFC South. Here are the key players for a big game for both teams:
Buffalo Bills
- Offensive Line – The Texans are fueled by the best player in football J.J. Watt. No matter how teams try to avoid Watt he still finds a way to have an impact on every game. In order for the Bills to move the ball the offensive line is going to have to try to contain Watt, who plays every position on the defensive line.
- Sammy Watkins – It is no secret that Watkins had most of his yards in college come on run after the catch, but in the NFL that has not been the case. Quick screens and slants to Watkins will help get the ball out quick, Sammy will have to make people miss in the open field.
- Stephon Gilmore – Gilmore should be matched up with DeAndre Hopkins nearly every play, which will be fun to watch all day. Without Hopkins, the Texans offensive doesn’t have much else, so if Gilmore can shut him down the Buffalo defense should have a big game.
Houtson Texans
- Alfred Blue – With the absence of Arian Foster, Blue has proven to be a very capable back for the Texans. Last week the Bills were shredded by the Chiefs 3rd string back Spencer Ware, so Blue should be excited for this match up. If the Texans establish the run that helps hide Brian Hoyer’s weaknesses.
- Brian Cushing – LeSean McCoy has been playing up to expectations of late, and it will be a team effort to stop him. However; Cushing will be the one making most of the player. In the Bills zone blocking scheme it can be tough for a middle linebacker to stay with the player. Cushing will have to be quick to scrape over and meet McCoy.
- Defensive Line – Both John Miller and Seantrel Henderson will likely be out on Sunday, meaning the Texans should have no problem getting to Taylor, the problem is getting him down. The Bills will rely on the left side of their line behind Incognito and Glenn, so expect Watt to be on that side most of the day.