Preview: Houston Texans @ Jacksonville Jaguars - Sept. 28, 2008

By Computer Sports

AFC action in the Florida sun between two teams at crossroads in their seasons. Houston, dramitically affected by Hurricane Ike is o-2 following last weeks thrashing by the Titans 31-12.  Starting QB Matt Schaub has been ineffective 17-37 for 188yds and 3 int last week, and WR Andre Johnson is struggling along with Schaub. Rookie RB Steve Slaton out of West Virginia has been a bright spot in the absence of Ahman Green. Slaton rushed for 116 yds and a score last week.

Jacksonville has problems of it’s own. Their last second win at Indy 23-21 got the Jags to 1-2 on the campaign. Last season QB David Garrard was very effective at managing the offense and not making game changing mistakes.  This season Garrard’s 4 int’s have eclipsed his total  from last year behind a make-shift offensive line which has adversely affected his play. Last week the ground game got going behind 100 yd+ performances from Maurice Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor . The Jags need more of that if a playoff run is in their future.

CSS ANALYSIS:

Houston’s offensive woes and defensive shortcomings will shine through this weekend again. Schaub is on the verge of being benched and a bad performance this weekend should seal the deal. Look for big #’s from the Jags ground game and a better effort from Garrard to equal a big Jacksonville win to get back to .500!

FREE PICK:

TAKE THE JAGUARS-7 1/2

GOOD LUCK AND THANKS!