:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60519467/158173160.0.0.0.jpg)
After two long weeks of waiting, football is finally back for Patriots. By the time the Patriots kick-off against the Texans in their Divisional Playoff match-up, only five teams remain. By the end of the game, the field for Championship Weekend will be set. The question obviously remains, however - will it be the Houston Texans or New England Patriots hosting the Ravens next Sunday?
Heading into this game, the Texans have every right to feel disrespected. They were embarrassed at Foxboro a month ago, and virtually no one has given them a chance in this one.
On the flip side, you won't find anyone in the Patriots locker room disrespecting the Texans. They know the Texans want revenge, they know the Texans have been disrespected, and they are prepared for the very best they have to offer.
As for the result of this game, you won't find me picking against the Patriots. Not with the potential this team has. Not at home. This isn't 2010. I really believe that the best football the Patriots have to offer is still ahead of them. That being said, a lot of things went the Patriots way the first time these teams played, and if a few of those go the other way, it could have been a different result. I'm expecting a close one.
And, oh yeah, go Pats!
Greg's Prediction: Patriots 31 Texans 24
Texans Coverage: Battle Red Blog