Mina Kimes reveals how Packers can unlock tough Texans defense in Week 7

While the focus is understandably on the two quarterbacks in the Green Bay Packers' matchup against the Houston Texans, a more specific contest will go a long way to determining the outcome of the game.

Can Jordan Love and the Packers unlock DeMeco Ryans' talented defense? Love's supporting cast is getting healthier, which is significant, but it's going to take a well-executed game plan to win.

Led by second-year star Will Anderson Jr. and former Minnesota Vikings Pro Bowler Danielle Hunter, the Texans can get after quarterbacks with their defensive line. While Houston's defense hasn't had everything go its way this season, it has shown championship potential, especially in its seven-sack, two-interception performance against the Chicago Bears.

How can the Packers unlock this defense? ESPN's Mina Kimes has the perfect solution.

Packers can beat Texans' defense by leaning on play-action passing game

On a recent episode of The Mina Kimes Show, Kimes broke down the formula for the Packers to beat the Texans in Week 7.

"This Houston defense is very good. I weirdly think, though, the type of offense Green Bay has matches up well with them in a couple of ways," said Kimes. "They don't have a No. 1 wide receiver. This is one of those matchups where it works in your favor because you can go hunting."

The Packers' ability to spread the ball around has helped them tremendously since the start of last season. Not only does it prevent defenses from focusing on stopping one player, but it also allows Matt LaFleur to identify favorable matchups. As Kimes points out, attacking the Texans on play-action passes is a way to do that.

"The Texans' defense is amazing and everything, but they still suck against play-action—30th in EPA per play," said Kimes. "I think Matt LaFleur pretty relentlessly goes after them."

Kimes is absolutely right, and it plays into Green Bay's hands. The Packers can run the football. They rank second in the league for rushing yards this season behind the excellent combination of Josh Jacobs and Emanuel Wilson. Although Houston has a strong defensive front and ranks fourth in run-stop win rate (per ESPN), the fact the Packers can run the ball is enough to create play-action opportunities.

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Don't be surprised if LaFleur goes after the Texans' linebackers in the passing game. Starters Azeez Al-Shaair and Henry To'oTo'o haven't practiced yet this week. Houston could either have to start backups or, at best, play its two key starters at below 100 percent. It could lead to significant work for Jayden Reed and Tucker Kraft in the middle of the field.

The Packers have utilized play-action beautifully already this season, including on Christian Watson's 44-yard touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals last week. Even with All-Pro Budda Baker in coverage, Watson was wide open. Even better? They drew up the play on the sideline.

Teams have a hard time defending the Packers because they can hurt you on the ground, underneath, and deep to Watson.

Houston's struggles defending play-action and injuries at linebacker play into Green Bay's hands.

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