The Houston Texans have defied expectations, transforming from the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft to clinching the AFC South championship in the following season, propelled by their rookie quarterback CJ Stroud. With Stroud expecting to secure more championship rings than Tom Brady, the Texans enter the playoffs with hopes of defeating the Cleveland Browns.
Before the pivotal matchup, it’s crucial to explore the game-day weather forecast and the injury reports of both teams, shedding light on the conditions that could impact this high-stakes playoff encounter.
Texans vs Browns weather forecast
The Browns and Texans are set to clash in a wild-card game this weekend in Houston, marking a pivotal moment in the NFL season. According to insights from Sportskeeda, game day temperatures are anticipated to hover in the mid-50s around noon, with a 25% chance of rain throughout the day.
The weather forecast describes the conditions as “cloudy to partly sunny.” As the kickoff approaches, temperatures are projected to reach around 60 degrees, gradually falling back into the mid and lower 50s as the game progresses.
Wind speeds are expected to be around seven mph, providing a relatively mild backdrop for the matchup.
Earlier concerns about extreme cold in the forecast have since evolved, with the updated prediction indicating that the anticipated cold air will arrive in southeast Texas late Sunday and early Monday, alleviating initial worries about frigid conditions during the game.
Texans vs Browns injury report
Before the playoffs kicks off, the Houston Texans faced a setback as defensive end Jerry Hughes was sidelined due to an ankle injury. The injury caused him to miss all practices during the week.
Despite having an injury-free status on the list, Michael Deiter (elbow) actively participated in a full practice session on Thursday.
On the injury front, several key players, including Maliek Collins (hip), Will Anderson Jr. (ankle), Noah Brown (back), Andrew Beck (calf), Jonathan Greenard (ankle), Sheldon Rankins (shoulder), and Robert Woods (hip), have been labeled as questionable.
As for the Browns, the injury concerns are higher. They ruled three players out. Kicker Dustin Hopkins is set to be sidelined due to a hamstring issue. While wide receiver Cedric Tillman is ruled out due to a concussion, safety Grant Delpit will not play due to a groin injury.
Running back Pierre Strong is listed as questionable. The defensive backfield is not immune to injury woes, with safeties Juan Thornhill (calf) and Grant Delpit (limited, groin) facing questions about their availability. The secondary also sees cornerbacks Mike Ford and Denzel Ward listed as questionable, with Ward nursing a shoulder issue.
Which team do you think will end up winning the showdown? Tell us in the comments.
