It's funny how the NFL works out, isn't it? Heading into the 2013 campaign, one of these teams was preparing to mount a Super Bowl challenge while the other was at the start of a building process. Now, the Texans are down in the dumps after losing a club record 10 games in a row and it is the Jaguars who are in the ascendancy, winning three of their last four contests since playing at Wembley Stadium.
Where to Watch:
| Channel: | Sky Sports 1HD (Sky Channel 401 or 407, Virgin Channel 517 or 511) |
| Date: | Friday, December 6, 2013 |
| Time: |
1:00am |
Who to Watch
Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson (80)– Still one of the best receivers in the game, Andre Johnson will be worth watching to see which happens first – he makes a big play or has a sideline meltdown. Johnson is frustrated at losing and has already told the media his team's offense "sucks" and he has also argued with quarterback Matt Schaub. Johnson could be ready to blow if things turn sour in Jacksonville.
Jaguars defensive end Jason Babin (58) –The Jaguars won a defensive struggle last time these two teams met and might need to rely on the guys on that side of the ball again on Thursday. Linebacker Paul Posluszny is a given in terms of high production but the rounding into form of Jason Babin is a huge plus. He recorded 2 sacks, 1 quarterback hit and 3 quarterback hurries in Cleveland last week.
The Expert's View
The Jaguars have their tails up and are playing much better football since returning from their post-Wembley bye week. By contrast, the Texans cannot seem to buy a break. Talent-wise, the Texans still have the edge in this game but they are so low on confidence that I expect the Jags to make this a close contest. This is a coin flip game and in such contests, I usually go with the home team, especially on a short week but I think the Texans will sneak this one – Neil Reynolds
By the Numbers
6…Jacksonville's Ace Sanders picked up six first downs last week against Cleveland and had a seventh called back by penalty.
6…In the last six games, Houston defensive end J.J. Watt has been one of the most dominant players in the league, recording 53 tackles, 6 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries and a blocked field goal.
100 and 2…Led by Maurice Jones-Drew, the Jaguars have posted 100-yard rushing days in each of the past two weeks. While not ground-breaking in any way, the improved rushing output has provided more offensive balance for the Jags.
Texans' Did you Know?
Andre Johnson has played in 35 games since turning 30 and is averaging 91.8 receiving yards per contest during that time. That is the most in NFL history.
Jaguars' Did you Know?
By the time the 2013 campaign ends, the Jaguars will have travelled a club record 26,052 miles for their eight road games and one 'home' game in London.
Our experts are favouring the Jaguars
Remaining Schedule:
| Houston Texans | at Colts, Brocnos, at Titans |
| Jacksonville Jaguars | Bills, Titans, at Colts |
