NFL playoffs 2018: Biggest difference-maker for each contender

By Ian Wharton | Dec 19, 2018

CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 28: Chicago Bears Wide Receiver Anthony Miller (17) runs after catch in the 1st quarter during an NFL football game between the New York Jets and the Chicago Bears on October 28, 2018, at Soldier Field in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Daniel Bartel/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – SEPTEMBER 30: Houston Texans Wide Receiver Keke Coutee (16) cuts up field during overtime at the NFL game between the Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts on September 30, 2018, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN. The Houston Texans defeated the Indianapolis Colts 37-34 in overtime. (Photo by Jeffrey Brown/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Houston Texans – Keke Coutee

One of the NFL’s biggest surprises this season has been the nine-game winning streak that the Houston Texans ripped off after a three-game skid out of the gate. Quarterback Deshaun Watson’s presence has boosted a woeful offensive line and running game as they’ve built the 11th-highest scoring offense. The addition of Demaryius Thomas has helped the team deal with other receiver injuries, but help is on the way.

Rookie receiver Keke Coutee has missed the last three games due to a hamstring injury, but he should be back in time for the playoffs. As he showed in his last full game against Washington on November 18, Coutee had a budding chemistry with Watson. He accumulated 77 yards and five catches, including a 40-yarder.

Coutee is a perfect slot receiver, but can also flex outside for deep routes. The Texans’ offense does miss Will Fuller’s speed, and Coutee is the obvious answer to step back into the role. Because the Texans are safely ahead in the AFC South, their conservative approach with Coutee makes sense to ensure he’ll be fully healthy in a few weeks.

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