San Francisco 49ers: Post-NFL Draft Win, Loss Predictions for 2017 Season

Week 14 at Houston Texans

The Houston Texans realized quarterback Brock Osweiler wasn’t the answer, and now they’re banking on the hopes former Clemson star Deshaun Watson will be.

Watson may wind up starting by Week 14, depending on how things go with Tom Savage under center. Either way, that plays into the 49ers’ hands. Even though Watson has his talents, 2017 is still too early for him to start. Watson needs at least a full year holding the clipboard to master an NFL offense.

Even so, the Texans defense is legit. There aren’t too many weaknesses here, and that poses a problem for a Niners offense still lacking any kind of elite playmakers.

Houston can win this game on its defense alone.

Why San Francisco Wins

The 49ers will try to eliminate the Texans ground game and force whoever is throwing the ball to make plays through the air. Yes, Houston’s wide receivers are good. But they’re no good if a quarterback can’t get them the ball. It’s that simple.

Keeping this a low-scoring game gives the Niners a solid chance. Even getting out to an early lead, tough as it may seem, would be huge. Houston isn’t going to be a come-from-behind team this year.

Why Houston Wins

The Texans know they’ll have offensive troubles this year. They’re planning on it. So like the Denver Broncos of 2015, Houston will let its defense do all the dirty work.

And this unit is perfectly adept to do so.

Houston will smother anything the 49ers try to do on the ground, and defensive playmakers J.J. Watt and Jadeveon Clowney shouldn’t have much trouble overpowering San Francisco’s weak offensive line.

Prediction