Eagles Ready For Watt And Texans
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- J.J. Watt is one of the most dominating defensive players in football. The Texans Defensive Lineman will look to continue with his dominance against the Eagles.
Watt and the Texans host the Eagles on Sunday, and Watt has the potential to dominate the game on the defensive end. He already has seven sacks and an interception return for a touchdown this season, and Nick Foles understands Watt is the key to the Texans' success on defense.
"We all know he's a very talented defensive lineman," said Foles. "You do want to be aware of where he is. He's going to do what he does best, and that's rush the passer."
Watt and the Texans are 4-4 on the season, and this game is critical in their efforts to stay in the AFC playoff picture. For Watt, facing the fast-pace Eagles defense will be a unique challenge.
"I really don't know if there's anybody that gets it off as quick as they do," Watt said. "You have to respect that. Obviously, they do a great job of practicing it with their guys because everybody is so knowledgeable, and they understand how to fit within the offense and play their role. It's impressive."
Watt isn't the only talented Texan on defense. Chip Kelly knows Houston's entire unit is made up of talented playmakers. The Texans have been giving up plenty of yardage, but Kelly says the Houston defense comes up big at the right time of the game.
"They play good red zone defense," said Kelly. "I think they're really sound. They do a really good job of keeping the ball in front of them. I think they tackle very well in the secondary. It's a real disciplined group on the defensive side of the ball."
No matter how well the Houston defense plays on Sunday, the Eagles know it's up to them to avoid critical mistakes. The turnovers have been piling up on offense, and Tight End Zach Ertz knows the team has to find a way of taking better care of the football.
"It's been frustrating for us," said Ertz. "We don't want to turn the ball over ever. We've just got to do a better job of taking care of the ball. It's been stressed, and now it's our job to go out there and execute."
Nate Allen initially came out for practice on Thursday, but the team injury report listed Allen as a non-participant. If Allen can't play, Kelly said Earl Wolff, Jayen Watkins and Chris Maragos could all see action if Allen can't play on Sunday.
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