NFL Week 11: Saints, 5 Teams In Must Win Situations

By Evan Massey | Nov 15, 2014

Oct 26, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) hands off to running back Mark Ingram (22) during the first quarter of a game against the Green Bay Packers at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 2, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Ryan Mallett (15) warms up before the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Houston Texans

Houston is currently sitting at 4-5 this season, and they have been unable to come through with big wins since early on in the season. They are facing a red hot Cleveland Browns’ team that is looking to prove themselves even more by moving to 7-3 on the season. Ryan Mallett is getting a chance to play this week, but the Texans will also be facing a tough task without star running back Arian Foster.

There is still a chance that the Texans could get back into the race for the AFC South division as well as a playoff spot, but they have to win this week. The Indianapolis Colts have a tough game against the New England Patriots, which could allow the Texans to catch up by another full game. Cleveland isn’t going to be an easy opponent, but the Texans have plenty of talent to pull off an upset this week.

Missing Foster is going to hurt without a doubt, but the Texans’ defense has the potential to get to Brian Hoyer and fluster him. If they can force a turnover or two, that might be just enough for Mallett to figure out a way to put enough points on the board. Cleveland isn’t the most high-powered offense team, and the Texans have proven to be a very solid playmaking defense when they play to their full potential.

Next: 3. Carolina Panthers

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