Bengals Q&A: ToroTimes.com Editor Graham Rogers

Jan 5, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) signals at the line of scrimmage against the Houston Texans during the second quarter of the AFC Wild Card playoff game at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Thank you to Graham Rogers of ToroTImes.com for his time to sit down with us and answer some questions from the other side of the field as the Bengals take on the Texans in Houston on Sunday. Check out what our own Matthew Willson had to say over on Torotimes.com 

Stripe Hype: Houston had a nice game against the Browns last week, how do you think that momentum can carry over to this week against the Bengals?

Graham Rogers: It was a surprising game for everyone. We didn’t know who Ryan Mallett the quarterback would be given the chance to lead a team. He showed veteran poise and a strong command of the offense. That win was so well rounded in all phases the Texans have a real boost to their confidence and a swagger not seen since early in the season.

SH: Arian Foster being inactive didn’t slow down the Texans last week, Will he be good to go this week and will his presence be missed against this Bengals defense?

GR: With the rise of Alfred Blue, the Texans don’t need to rush Foster back in. Between Blue’s performance and the deep threat Ryan Mallett brings Foster might sit this one out as well to give that groin the extra time it needs to heal fully.

SH: Outside of the obvious JJ Watt and Andre Johnson, who should the Bengals be preparing for on this Texan sideline?

GR: DeAndre Hopkins. He’s our best deep threat, and has started to really come into his own this season. If the Bengals have a break down in coverage the Texans have a quarterback who can take advantage of that.

SH: What are your keys to the game this week for the Houston Texans to pick up another victory to get above the .500 mark?

GR: The defense has to stay consistent. Brian Cushing and Jadeveon Clowney returning from injuries are poised to be a big part of this late season push. Offensively, the up tempo offense that was saw against the Browns. If the Texans can do that again they’ll be tough to beat.

SH: Finally, What is your prediction for Sunday?

GR: Like the previous match ups between these two teams it will be an exciting match up, hard fought but ultimately the Texans walk away with the home win 23-17.