Five reasons the Houston Texans can win Super Bowl 50

By John Buhler | Jan 6, 2016

Jan 3, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans cornerback Kareem Jackson (25) celebrates with outside linebacker Whitney Mercilus (59) and strong safety Andre Hal (29) and outside linebacker John Simon (51) after scoring a touchdown during the second half against the Jacksonville Jaguars at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jan 3, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) celebrates defeating the Jacksonville Jaguars 30-6 to win the AFC South Division at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

5. J.J. Watt

Since joining the NFL in 2011, there has not been a more dynamic force on either side of the football than the Houston Texans’ 3-4 defensive end J.J. Watt. Watt is a four-time Pro Bowler (2012-15), a three-time All-Pro (2013-15), and a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2012, 2014). He was rated the No. 1 overall player in the NFL entering the 2015 NFL season in the NFL Top 100.

So having arguably the best player in the NFL on one’s team is certainly a great start towards winning a Super Bowl. The Texans have advanced in the AFC Playoffs both times they have made it in franchise history, winning in the Wild Card round as the winner of the AFC South. Watt was the prominent player for the Texans on both of those playoff teams.

Watt is arguably the most complete player on the defensive side of the football in the National Football League. He can play on the defensive line as a 3-4 defensive end. Defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel can move him outside a bit as an edge rusher.

Watt can stuff the run and bat down errant passes at the line of scrimmage. He has a knack for coming up with the football either through interceptions or fumble recoveries. At times, he’s even been a goal line tight end for the Texans, coming down with several career touchdown receptions.

There were many great defensive stars in the NFL Playoffs this season, but outside of maybe linebacker Luke Kuechly of the Carolina Panthers, there isn’t a defensive player that shines as bright as Watt. He is a true difference maker defensively for the Texans and has the ability to win games for the team strictly as a pass rushing force.

Next: 4. Bill O'Brien

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