It has been tough to be without outside linebacker Justin Houston over the past five weeks. While the Kansas City Chiefs have won each of those games, the loss of Houston has been felt both in the pass rush and against the run, showcased by the Cleveland Browns almost racking up 300 yards on the ground.
The good news? We are apparently done with the days of Houston waiting patiently on the sideline. On Wednesday, Houston declared that his plan is to play on Saturday. Houston will be getting in a third consecutive practice on Wednesday, something that typically indicates he is ready to roll.
Pro Bowl linebacker Justin Houston said he would play In Saturday's playoff game against... https://t.co/QifldgZ9L2 pic.twitter.com/gkCQnJovYT
— Adam Teicher (@adamteicher) January 6, 2016
Getting Houston back for Kansas City’s game against the Houston Texans is huge. He will be going against right tackle Derek Newton, who he dominated in Week 1. That game, Newton permitted a sack and most importantly, allowed Houston to get into his chest and forced Brian Hoyer into an interception on the first play of the game.
With Houston and Tamba Hali going against Newton and backup left tackle Chris Clark, the Chiefs should be getting pressure on Hoyer all game.