NFL 2015: Ranking each defense from 32-1

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Dec 21, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) during the fourth quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at NRG Stadium. The Texans defeated the Ravens 25-13. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

8. Houston Texans

Houston enters 2015 with an odd situation in today’s game. The best player, and most recognizable, is on the defense, and it is not even close. The Texans are a bunch of no-names on offense with Arian Foster sidelined with a groin injury, leaving much of the burden on the defense to go out and win some games.

Houston has a chance to be great defensively because it has the best player on the planet in defensive end J.J. Watt. Despite playing a position in the 3-4 defense that does not typically provide big pass-rush numbers, Watt finished second in the league last season with 20.5 sacks. Watt continues to be a dominant force, and now has nose tackle Vince Wilfork next to him.

The key to this defense is going to be Jadeveon Clowney. While Clowney was active for four games last season, he rarely saw the field and eventually had to be shut down before having microfracture surgery on his knee. At this point, it appears Clowney will be back on the field for Week 1 against the Kansas City Chiefs. If Houston is going to make the playoffs, Clowney needs to produce like the first-overall pick that he is.

Next: 7. Miami Dolphins

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