The absence of defensive end J.J. Watt due to a season-ending torn pectoral creates more than a large hole within the Texans' defense as a run stopper and pass rusher.
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It sparks a big question of strategy for veteran defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel: To blitz more or not?
Every blitz carries an element of risk because it could leave someone uncovered.
Give quarterbacks too much time, however, and the Texans' threadbare secondary could continue to be picked apart.
“With any secondary, when you blitz, if you don't get home, then there's a chance you give up a big play," Crennel said.