HOUSTON @ NEW ENGLAND
We have a pair of 2-0 teams squaring off in a potential AFC playoff preview. There are plenty of huge factors heading into this game, none bigger than what will we see happen at the quarterback position. Although strategy will probably play the biggest role in this game with the best coach in the NFL on the Pats sideline.
The Texans made one of the biggest offseason moves by picking QB Brock Osweiler. While some people have said that Brock is a little overrated, he's done great over his first two weeks.
Remember that he was mentored by legendary QB Peyton Manning during his time in Denver.
Houston has acquired RB Lamar Miller from the Dolphins, to replace former RB Arian Foster,
who was released by the Texans in March earlier this year.
The Texans still have the electrifying DeAndre Hopkins, who is the team's best Wide Receiver by a long shot and is easily one of the best receivers in the NFL.
Hopkins is an elite receiver who's got explosive ability and hands like glue.
Expect DeAndre Hopkins to have a monster game, being Osweiler's favorite target.
We'll see early on if he can be slowed down by the Pat's 28th ranked secondary.
The Pats also have the 25th ranked Defense overall and are 9th against the run.
As for their defense, J.J. Watt will likely play this week, which means big trouble for the Pats. Along side Watt, is DE Jadeveon Clowney and former Patriot Vince Wilfork. The Texans bring the 3rd overall ranked defense in the league heading into Thursday night. They're also ranked 3rd overall against the pass, which is even better for them, since they're facing a 3rd string QB. The Texans clearly have the advantage at the Quarterback position, especially since Brock Osweiler has been playing so well with this team thus far in the season. He may have a big coming out party int his game, but DON'T ever sleep on the Patriots who always show up prepared for anything.
For the Patriots, Tom Brady is still serving his four game suspension and in his place, QB Jimmy Garoppolo has played better than expected and helped the Patriots start off 2-0. However, he sustained an injury that took him out of last week's game, and is doubtful to play. 3rd string QB Jacoby Brissett will likely be the starter, but we could see former college Quarterback Julian Edleman under center, if needed.
New England comes into this game with the league's 5th ranked Offense overall.
They'll heavily rely on RB LeGarrette Blount who's been one of the best RB's in the league.
TE Rob Gronkowski is questionable as is LB Dont'a Hightower which may be very costly.
The Pats super athlete LB Jamie Collins, leads the way for his team on the Defensive side of the ball. They're secondary can be dangerous with SS Patrick Chung and Superbowl savior CB Malcom Butler lurking in the shadows.
New England's best asset has always been their mastermind head coach, Bill Belichick.
Coach Belichick always has something up his sleeve and finds a way to neutralize the opposing team's number one strength, whatever their biggest strength may be.
This genius has been consistent his entire career, so don't be surprised if he pulls out a win.
Maybe the biggest advantage the Patriots have is playing a primetime game at home.
They're the toughest team in the NFL to beat at home over the last 10 years with 122 wins.
Gillette stadium is always rocking with rabid diehard fans who bring the noise and energy!
With all of that analysis, my pick for this game comes down to the healthier team on a short week.
MY PICK = 
Estimated Score - Houston 30 New England 23
Let me know your predictions and what you think the score will be!
Please UPVOTE as I have spent a lot of time and research putting this together. Thanks.