The Indianapolis Colts (9-4) are preparing to host the Houston Texans (4-9) on Sunday with quarterback Deshaun Watson being at the forefront of the game plan.
Watson, who has been dealing with a depleted cast on both sides of the ball this season, is truly the only thing keeping the Texans from totally crumbling. He’s having a strong season despite the players around him, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed by head coach Frank Reich.
While Watson could be considered elite in several aspects of the game, there’s one in particular that stands out to Reich.
“I don’t mind saying it, I just think this guy is elite in that regard. Whatever that group of elite guys are at extending plays, he’s in that mix,” said Reich on Friday. “I have a lot of respect for him as does everybody who watches this guy play – the way he plays, the way he handles his business. It’s a great test for our defense.”
Watson is completing 68.9% of his passes for 3,761 yards, 25 touchdowns and six interceptions with a 109.4 passer rating. Considering his offensive line has been in shambles and Bill O’Brien shipped off DeAndre Hopkins, it’s incredible to see the type of numbers Watson is putting up.
Playing against this caliber of quarterback will bring out the best in the Colts defense, Reich believes.
“I think defenses really – although it is hard to play against a guy like this, I think it brings out the best,” Reich said. “That’s what it needs to do for our defense because we know it’s not just one-on-one. It has to be 11-on-one. When it’s a four-man rush, it’s four-on-one. Other than that we have 11 guys running to the ball. That’s what’s exciting about this league, you have players like Deshaun (Watson) that brings out the best and he certainly is elite in that regard.”
The Colts should win this game on Sunday. They are the better team and the ones fighting for a playoff spot. But Watson won’t make it easy for the Colts, especially after almost pulling off a comeback in Week 13.
While the Colts may be favorites, they have to find a way to shut down Watson and keep him from extending plays.
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