The Houston Texans have a long, and for the most part, depressing history with the New England Patriots. With the "Patriots South" moniker from a year ago to the infamous letterman jackets from 2012. The only win for the Texans in this one-sided rivalry came in 2010, with Brian Hoyer replacing Tom Brady in a meaningless, end of the season victory. Other than that, the Texans have been embarrassed, blown out, and somehow always come away with just a participation ribbon.

If the Texans beat the Patriots tomorrow night it will be a big deal. The fact that the Patriots are possibly starting rookie 3rd string quarterback Jacoby Brissett is a story in itself, but this game means a lot to the Texans. Bill O’Brien has worked closely with Bill Belichick and they know how each other game plan. Here are things to watch in this Thursday night matchup:

The Emergence of Will Fuller:

Will Fuller is a way too early candidate for Offensive Rookie of the Year. He has surpassed 100 receiving yards in his first 2 NFL games, a feat that has not been done in the NFL since 2008 with Desean Jackson. Also to note, Jackson did not surpass 100 yards again until his 2nd season. With the Patriots defensive line unable to put any pressure on Ryan Tannehill in their week 2 game, expect Osweiler to have plenty of time to take a few chances with Fuller down the field.

The Texans front 7:

The Texans front 7 is looking like one of the best in the NFL. With so many weapons on the line the Patriots will have to choose who to block on every play. With rookie quarterback Jacoby Brissett in the game, I can imagine that the Texans get very creative with their play calling trying to get him confused. JJ Watt showed last week that he is back to form, and the Texans are finally getting steady production from former 1st overall pick JD Clowney. Clowney had a tremendous game last year against the Patriots recording 2 sacks. If the Texans want to come away with a win, their front 7 will be an integral part in securing the victory.

The Unknown of Jacoby Brissett:

Rookie quarterbacks do not usually fair well against the Texans. Jameis Winston, Derek Carr and Blake Bortles all lost to the Texans in their rookie seasons and Jacoby Brissett will hopefully be the next rookie to fall victim to Romeo Crennel’s stout defense. He was the 8th quarterback taken this past NFL draft. After starting his college career at Florida, he transferred to North Carolina State where he was an immediate starter. The Texans coaching staff is more than likely rewatching game film from his college games. Brissett has also received the seal of approval from Bill Parcells, who has been somewhat of a mentor for the young quarterback since high school. With the way the Texans defense has been playing the first two games I can imagine that all of his throws will be close to the line of scrimmage with few shots downfield.

The Texans are hoping to leave Foxborough 3-0 which they have only done once before in franchise history. With a win, the Texans can show the NFL they are a true contender in the league this year. With a Thursday game they will be able to get a bit of rest until a week 4 match up with the Titans.