Chiefs-Steelers, Ravens-Texans on Netflix: Four Things to Watch for in Christmas Doubleheader
The NFL’s Christmas Day doubleheader on Netflix features two intriguing matchups: the Kansas City Chiefs visiting the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens hosting the Houston Texans. Here are four key storylines to watch for:
1. Mahomes vs. Watt: A Clash of Titans
The Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes is widely considered the NFL’s best quarterback, while the Steelers’ T.J. Watt is arguably its top defensive player. This matchup will be a fascinating chess match between two generational talents.
Mahomes has thrown for over 3,500 yards and 30 touchdowns this season, leading the Chiefs to an 11-3 record. Watt, meanwhile, has 15.5 sacks and four forced fumbles, anchoring a Steelers defense that ranks fifth in the league.
2. Ravens’ Running Game vs. Texans’ Struggling Defense
The Ravens have the NFL’s most prolific rushing attack, averaging 168.7 yards per game. Led by quarterback Lamar Jackson and running backs J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards, Baltimore can wear down opponents with its physicality.
The Texans, on the other hand, have allowed over 130 rushing yards per game this season, ranking 28th in the league. If the Ravens can establish their ground game, they could control the tempo and limit the Texans’ offensive opportunities.
3. Steelers’ Passing Game: Can Trubisky Deliver?
The Steelers’ passing game has been inconsistent this season, with quarterback Mitch Trubisky struggling to find a rhythm. Trubisky has thrown for over 2,700 yards and 17 touchdowns, but he also has 11 interceptions.
Against the Chiefs’ formidable pass rush, Trubisky will need to make quick decisions and deliver accurate passes. Wide receivers Diontae Johnson and George Pickens will be crucial targets for the Steelers to keep their offense moving.
4. Texans’ Upset Potential: A Battle for Playoffs
The Texans are 1-12-1 this season, but they have shown signs of improvement in recent weeks. Quarterback Davis Mills has thrown for over 300 yards in each of his last three starts, and running back Dameon Pierce has emerged as a reliable threat.
If the Texans can play with the same intensity and execution they displayed in their upset win over the Tennessee Titans last week, they could give the Ravens a run for their money. A victory would keep their playoff hopes alive and inject some excitement into a disappointing season.
Conclusion
The Chiefs-Steelers and Ravens-Texans matchups on Netflix’s Christmas doubleheader promise to deliver plenty of excitement and intrigue. From the Mahomes-Watt showdown to the Ravens’ dominant running game and the Texans’ upset potential, these games will have something for every NFL fan.