More specifically, Boutte boldly poked at the Texans' secondary, which is arguably the best in the league. He said he was eager to face them, namely All-Pro cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. Time after time, Stingley and Co. have made those who dare to challenge them look foolish throughout the 2025 campaign. No team allowed fewer yards per contest than the Texans this season, and only the Seattle Seahawks finished ahead of them in scoring.
After watching the Texans' defense dismantle the Steelers on Monday night, it's clear the Patriots are in for a challenge when they host Houston in the divisional round. They just went against another formidable defensive opponent in the Chargers, but this is a different breed Drake Maye hasn't faced in his young career. It is already being projected to be the best defensive group the Patriots will face this season, and fortunately, they have some experience in that area during the 10-game win streak.