Credit:(USA Today Sports Images)
The last time the Giants faced the Houston Texans was October 10th 2010 in Houston. New York won 34-10 in a game that Eli Manning saw very little pressure. Since then the Texans have become a very different team and entered a man named J.J. Watt.
JJ. Watt was the 2012 defensive player of the year and is an early defensive player of the year favorite again this season. Expect him to do his best to terrorize the Giants O-line. J.J. led the league in quarterback hits last year with 46 and was second in tackles for a loss. He signed a 6-year contract extension on Tuesday, Sept. 2. After signing on to his new contract Watt said he wants to prove his worth.
“I don’t want to be that guy that people say that got money and shut down. I want to work hard every day- whether it is workouts, practice, games, and improve.”
His 185 solo tackles since entering the league in 2011, lead all defensive lineman.
Not only do you have to watch him on defense, but he was put in on offense last week against Oakland and got himself a receiving touchdown. The Texans have practiced with Watt at tight end lately and I wouldn’t be surprised if that trend continues. The man is simply one of the best athletes in the NFL. The Giants will have to be aware of his position on the field Sunday and make sure if he isn’t getting to the quarterback to keep his hands down as well. Watt has a impressive skill when it comes to batting down balls.
Tom Coughlin emphasized the need to know his position on the field.
“He comes off the ball very, very well. He has outstanding energy, endurance, so there’s no doubt people have to be aware of where he is.”
In the event of Watt lining up on offense again this week, Giants LB Mark Herzlich said, “If you’re gonna find a way to cover Andre Johnson on the goal-line, you’re gonna find a way to cover JJ Watt.”
Other Giant’s LB Jameel McClain referred to Watt as a “freak” and said the Texans “are getting the bang for their buck out of JJ.”
J.J. Watt is just one player for the Texans, but one thing is for sure: New York will be checking to see where Watt is lurking before every play this Sunday at MetLife Stadium.
Bobby O’Hara:PureSportsNY