The Chargers are set to take on the Texans on Dec. 26 at 1:05 pm PT in hopes of bouncing back after their loss to the Chiefs last Thursday.
Here are four important things to know about Los Angeles’ opponent ahead of the Week 16 bout.
Bottom of the barrel
This season hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows for the Texans, as they’re 3-11, with their wins coming over the Jaguars twice and the Titans. Houston is dead-last in offensive yards produced (3,717), second-least in points per game (14.8), and has given up the fourth-most yards (5,297) and points per game (26.6).
Who’s under center?
Deshaun Watson is among the first players thought of whenever the Texans are brought up. However, facing multiple lawsuits, Watson’s time in the NFL is on the line altogether. Former Chargers QB Tyrod Taylor was the next in line. Taylor showed promise before injuring his hamstring. When he returned, he struggled, which led to him getting benched in favor of rookie Davis Mills for the remainder of the season. In 10 games, eight of which he started, Mills has thrown for 1,946 yards, ten touchdowns to nine interceptions.
Deadly weapon
Even though the Texans don’t necessarily have a prolific passing offense, they still have a receiver that’s a threat to any secondary. Brandin Cooks, the speedy veteran, has shown the ability to produce at a high level no matter who’s under center. In the last two games, Mills and Cooks connected for 203 yards and two touchdowns on 15 receptions. This season, Cooks has 80 catches for 945 yards and five scores.
Ball magnets
The Texans struggle with allowing points and yards altogether, but they do have a knack for getting their hands on the football. The team has combined for 14 interceptions, which is tied for the fifth-most in the NFL. It’s been a collaborative effort, but Lonnie Johnson leads the crop with three, followed by former Chargers CB Desmond King with two.