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Texans defense prepares for "physical" matchup

The Texans five-game win streak against the Titans ended in Week 17 last year. On Sunday, they hope to get back on track with a much-needed win but on against their AFC South rival.

"It's going to be a very physical game," head coach Bill O'Brien said Wednesday. "Mike's (Mularkey) done a great job with that team. They've got a good football team. It's going to be a real physical challenge."

The Titans currently rank second in the NFL in rushing yards per game (156.3) and per play (5.1) with the running back tandem of DeMarco Murray and Derrick Henry. Murray rushed for 115 yards and a touchdown last week in Tennessee's win against the Seattle Seahawks.

"I think that when you have two guys of that caliber that are able to interchange with each other, I think that's where you get some really good success," J.J. Watt said. "One guy gets tired, the other guy steps right in. I think that's why they have success, but it's also a nice, fun challenge for the defense, knowing that they have a couple of guys back there and a quarterback that can run. So, we need to make sure we do a really good job in that category."

In 10 career games against the Titans, Watt has compiled 15.5 sacks, the most sacks against any single opponent in his career. Watt has also recorded a sack in eight consecutive games against the Titans. On Sunday, the Texans four-time All-Pro defensive end will face Mariota for the first time in his career.

"Every year is different, every team is different," Watt said. "They have different players, they have different guys. So, I can't say it's all because of one team or one organization. It's just, every year and every game's a little bit different."

Mariota was 13-of-29 for 202 yards, 0 touchdowns and one interception when he last faced the Texans in Week 4. Jadeveon Clowney had the lone sack of the game. 

The (1-2) Texans host the (2-1) Titans on Sunday. Kickoff is set for 12 noon on CBS and SportsRadio 610.

Check out some of the best shots from Wednesday's practice as the Texans prepare for Sunday's game against the Titans.

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