Are Houston Texans genuine Super Bowl contenders this season?

We go in-depth on O’Brien’s hopefuls

Houston Texans are currently on the joint-longest winning run in the AFC, with six wins on the spin. And despite last season’s struggles, talk is now beginning on whether Bill O’Brien’s men are real Super Bowl contenders this year.

Ahead of their trip to Washington Redskins this weekend, we look at the case for – and against – the Texans’ shot at glory…

Pro: They’re among the NFC’s best defences…and only getting better

Only two sides in the NFC can boast a better defensive record than Houston. They’ve also given up 47 points fewer than current 7/2 Super Bowl favourites Los Angeles Rams.

Powerful Linebacker Zach Cunningham has been the defensive standout for Houston. He’s produced or assisted over 10 tackles in three of his last four outings, playing the major role in nine against Buffalo Bills.

However, it’s the overall team stats which have been most impressive of late. The Texans have given up just 60 points in the last four games (or 15 per game).

Had they averaged that over the course of the season so far, O’Brien’s side would comfortably boast the best defensive record in the NFL.

Pro: Watson-Hopkins link-up doing the business

It’s no secret that Houston’s main offensive strength is the link-up between Quarterback Deshaun Watson and Wide Receiver DeAndre Hopkins. The thing is – no defence can stop it right now.

Hopkins has now chalked up Touchdowns in all of the last four games, including a pair in the 42-23 mauling of Miami Dolphins last month. For context, that’s the most points the Florida outfit have conceded in the past year.