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MassLive sports columnist Karen Guregian makes the postseason pick:
The star of the Houston Texans is their defense. During the regular season, due in large part to that defense, the Texans took down Patrick Mahomes (14 of 33 for 160 yards, 3 INTs, 2 sacks, 19.8 QB rating) and the Chiefs 20-10, Josh Allen (2 INTs, 8 sacks) and the Bills 23-19, and Justin Herbert (1 INT, 5 sacks) and the Chargers 20-16.
Impressive, to stay the least. That unit is the heartbeat of the Texans, who have won 10 straight games.
With that, it wouldn't be a surprise if the Texans, who have won 10 straight games, came to Foxborough and beat the Patriots in their AFC Divisional Round game.
I'm just not convinced it's going to happen.
The Patriots are a more well-rounded team. And if there's anyone that can crack that defense, it's Josh McDaniels and Drake Maye.
Plus, when it comes down to the most important player on the field - the quarterback - the Patriots have the clear advantage. I'll take Drake Maye over a shaky C.J. Stroud.
Beyond that, this is more gut feeling than anything else. The Patriots are home, they're well-coached, they're connected, they have the better quarterback, and believe they can beat anyone.
They'll find a way.
Final score prediction: Patriots 17, Texans 13
