The 49ers have the chance to move to 6-2 this week when they visit the Houston Texans, who may be in desperation mode after a dismal start to their season.
Houston had aspirations of another playoff run after progressing to the Divisional Round last season.
But instead the Texans have slumped to 2-4 through their first six games, and have very little room for error in an AFC led by their division rivals, the Indianapolis Colts.
So what’s going on with the Texans? I checked in with Scott Barzilla of Battle Red Blog to get his insight.
1) The Texans’ offensive line has come in for a lot of criticism again this season. Is that the sole reason for the offense’s struggles, or are there deeper issues?
There are tons of issues. It starts on top with the offensive coordinator [Nick Caley]. They picked the wrong guy. The sooner they move on the better. The line is a huge concern and a huge part of the issue. It comes down to personnel and how you use them. Yes, there are holes but a competent guy can work around that.
2) How do you see C.J. Stroud’s development this season amid the adversity? Has he taken something of a step back or has he just been dealt an especially difficult hand?
I think he is about on par with last season. Eventually the numbers are what they are. He is completing a higher percentage of passes and running better overall. I just don’t know what his ceiling is because of all the adversity. It’s a common story and I imagine he might end up like a Sam Darnold or Baker Mayfield.
3) DeMeco Ryans is fondly remembered in San Francisco for the dominant defense he oversaw in 2022. What are the primary reasons for his defense’s success so far this season?
He actually turned over play calling duties to Matt Burke. As bad as Nick Caserio has been at building the offense, he has been great at building the defense. They are deep on the defensive line and in the secondary. They have a knack for making opposing quarterbacks miserable.
4) Houston isn’t a team 49ers fans see very often. Who are some players on offense and defense we may not have heard about but will be impactful on Sunday?
On offense, the rookies are the key. Jaylin Noel has been getting better and Woody Marks is a nice dual threat back as well. They need Jayden Higgins to step up with Nico Collins in the concussion protocol. On defense, the defensive tackles have been the biggest surprise. Tommy Togiai has been a revelation while Tim Settle and Sheldon Rankins team up to clog up the middle. Kamari Lassiter still might fly under some people’s radar but he shouldn’t.
5) The Texans are narrow favorites for this one. At 2-4, do you view it as a kitchen-sink game for Houston, and how do you see it turning out?
I have zero confidence in this offense so we need a HOF defensive performance. We need Will Anderson and/or Danielle Hunter to take over the game. I think it looks like a 20-17 game with the Niners finishing on top. I usually recommend the under when the Texans are involved.
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