In this week’s 5 Questions, Battle Red blog shared their opinions on how the Texans and Ravens will match up on Sunday.

1. Houston’s defensive unit has always been strong under DeMeco, but this year they seem to have made a big leap. Was there a single factor that made this team so successful, or was it a young and exciting roster that has come together under a new head coach in his third year?

It’s a combination of several things. In its third season, I believe the players have become more comfortable with the system. But I believe that a greater part of the system is either newer, healthier pieces, or some key pieces. Sheldon Rankins returned to anchor the interior after missing a whole season. E.J. Speed has been added to the core of linebackers and he had his first positive action in this past week. Christian Harris has returned to full health and is contributing in the secondary. Daniele Hunter is a Pro Bowler, as are Will Anderson and Derek Stingley. Kamari Lasiter has a chance to make it as well. Ryans handed over the play-calling duties to DC Matt Burke. There are obviously strategic reasons to do that. But I think this shows how comfortable everyone feels with the way things are going.

2. Caley’s unit has had a rough year since the Texans hired him as offensive coordinator in the off-season. Caley’s offense hasn’t been performing well so far. Will he be able to turn things around when he faces the Ravens’ worst-ranked defense?

Everyone is asking if the Texans made a mistake with this hire. Caley’s biggest failing is that he doesn’t consistently put his best 11 players on the field. Woody Marks and Jalen Higgins, rookies, are more talented than most of the players who have played in front of them. In the early stages, the offensive line has seen a lot of movement. The hope is that this will continue into the future. Those players were given more time in the first game against Tennessee. C.J. is hoped to be the play caller. Stroud will continue to use the system, and get rid of the ball as quickly as possible. This was his best game week.

3. Houston has also made changes to their offensive line in the off-season. What are the early returns from rookie left AireontaeErsery? Will they be able dominate Baltimore’s defense as the Lions, Chiefs, and others did?

Ersery will have both good and bad plays, just like most rookies. Consistency will always be the biggest hurdle to overcome for these guys. You might think that the offensive line is the most cruel position on the football field. Even if you succeed 90% of the time, it is the 10% that sticks in the mind. This offense was also shuffled around a bit. Juice Scruggs has taken over Laken Tomlinson’s job. This week, the team dealt Cam Robinson. This unit is hoping to continue building continuity, and turning 90 percent into 95.

4. The Ravens have had a difficult time getting off the field this year. How can they do that on Sunday?

Both teams must pay attention to the third downs. The Texans will be able to convert about half of their third downs if they are on third and medium or short. It will be a bad day for the Texans if they are third-and-longs. It’s all about the running and this is another aspect that has made a return. The team had over 30 carries and the third downs became much more manageable. Woody Marks was thrust into the spotlight offensively, and it was like a breath fresh air. We hope that this trend continues.

5. What Texan has not been recognized so far in this season, but who could make a big impact on Baltimore?

Marks, I’d say. Ravens and Texans meet almost every year, either in regular season or playoffs. You probably know most of our notable players. Marks was selected in the fourth round this year, and like most running backs he will reap immediate rewards due to his versatility and quickness. He scored one touchdown from the backfield, and another one while receiving. Noel, who was mentioned earlier, is also a player to watch in special teams. In a tight game, he has already returned a long punt this season. Special teams plays can be the difference. Tommy Togiai, a defensive tackle who is new to the team and makes plays on defense, is another player that stands out. The defensive tackles may not be Pro Bowl players, but will sneak up and make a crucial stop or sack.