Let's Talk Playoffs
By urbanhoustonian at December 21, 2009 | 9:25 AM | Print
So the Texans got lucky won yesterday, beating the St. Louis Rams 16-13, and kept themselves in the hunt for a playoff spot. Yes, it’s true, the Texans still have a shot at the playoffs. I’ll be honest, I’m incredibly doubtful, but let’s break it down.
Currently, there are 6 teams, including the Texans, with a record of 7-7. Any of these teams will have to win their final two games to make the playoffs. If they lose, they’re out. Looking at each of these teams:
Pittsburgh Steelers
Final games: Baltimore Ravens, at Miami Dolphins
My take: I don’t seem them winning both of these games. The defending Super Bowl Champions are going to miss the playoffs.
Miami Dolphins
Final Games: Houston Texans, Pittsburgh Steelers
My Take: Their game against the Texans will end someone’s season. However, I still don’t see the Fish winning both of these games either.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Final Games: at New England Patriots, at Cleveland Browns
My Take: If the Jags can beat the Pats, they are a near certainty to go 9-7. Fortunately, the Pats still have a LOT to play for, and will be very difficult to beat in Foxboro.
Tennessee Titans
Final Games: San Diego Chargers, at Seattle
My Take: Tennessee won’t beat the Chargers, what started as a disappointing season will finish that way.
New York Jets
Final Games: at Indianapolis Colts, Cincinnati Bengals
My Take: If any team had a chance to win their final two games, this isn’t it. They’re TOAST.
Houston Texans
Final Games: at Miami, New England
My Take: They certainly can win both of these game, but will they? Well, that’s been the question all season. They beat the hell out of the Seattle Seahawks, then squeaked by what is arguably the worst team in the league. Your guess is as good as mine, but let’s just say yes, the Texans will finish the season 9-7.
Now, here is my best Texans impression. After building you up to think the playoffs are a reality, I’m going to dash your hopes on sharp rocks of disappointment. The other two teams playing for the Wild Card spots are the Baltimore Ravens and the Denver Broncos. While it is very possible they could both finish 9-7, they both hold the tiebreaker over Houston by way of their conference records. And, I hate to tell ya, but I don’t see the Ravens or Broncos finishing the season 8-8.
So, while the Texans are still mathematically eligible for the playoffs, it just ain’t gonna happen.
