Buffalo Bills: 3 key matchups in Week 4 against the Houston Texans

WR Brandin Cooks vs. CB Tre’Davious White

Houston’s offense has revolved around one person this season and that’s Brandin Cooks.

Through three weeks, Cooks’ 322 receiving yards are the third-most in the NFL, his 32 targets are fifth-most, and his 23 receptions are tied for third. His importance to the Texans’ offense is magnified when looking at the other receiving options the team has, as no other wide receiver has more than 50 yards and no other player has more than 70 yards.

Whether it’s Tyrod Taylor or Davis Mills under center, the team is making a concerted effort to force the ball to its top wideout. That means in Week 4, Tre’Davious White will likely be the one most responsible for covering Cooks.

White was in a similar situation last week when he was tasked with shadowing Washington Football Team receiver Terry McLaurin. The standout receiver was limited to just four receptions for 62 yards in the contest, a massive win for White and the Bills considering McLaurin exploded for 11 catches, 107 yards, and a score in Week 2.

Houston’s road map to offensive success lies in the success of Cooks. If the 28-year-old dominates this matchup, the Texans will be able to run their offense without much resistance. If he doesn’t, there aren’t many other playmakers this team can rely on.