Where: Gillette Stadium

TV, radio: ESPN, Ch. 5, 98.5 FM

When the Patriots run

New England’s ground game struggled early against the Dolphins last Sunday but came to life late when it really counted. It’ll be more tough sledding in this one as the Texans are stout against the run, and it starts with underrated nose tackle Shaun Cody. The 6-foot-4-inch, 307-pound Cody is quick off the snap and uses his strength and athleticism to angle linemen out of their comfort zones and give enthusiastic linebackers Connor Barth and Whitney Mercilus (a great name for a linebacker) clear paths to the ballcarrier. J.J. Watt and Antonio Smith are exceptional at setting the edge and keeping runners contained. The Patriots need to use all their backs to wear down the Texans. Stevan Ridley (5-11, 220 pounds) has shown excellent vision and lively legs this season. He is clearly the type of player who thrives on a heavy workload and contact. Brandon Bolden (5-11, 220) is back from suspension and his high-energy, bruising style will come in handy. If nothing else, he should be fresh. Shane Vereen has a quick first step and good vision and acceleration. He lacks power, however. Danny Woodhead lacks size, but his quickness and instincts make him a solid threat in small doses. Ryan Wendell continues to do yeoman’s work at center, especially considering he never knows who will be lining up next to him. Wendell is quick and smart and plays to the whistle — a trait he no doubt picked up from Logan Mankins.

Rushing yards per game

New England offense: 140.8 (Eighth)

Houston defense: 87.6 (Second)

EDGE: Patriots

When the Patriots pass

Much has been made of J.J. Watt’s emergence as the top defensive end in the NFL. And deservedly so. The 6-foot-5-inch, 295-pound Watt has tremendous size and explosiveness and an impressive wing span. Watt is very smart, reads formations quickly, and is equally adept at shedding blockers and swatting passes. He has elite closing speed and his hits hurt — a lot. Also, Bill Belichick thinks Watt, in just his second season, is the defensive player of the year. Tom Brady will need to be at his quick-thinking, distributing best to counter Watt. Luckily, Brady has the weapons. Wes Welker gets the job done with a nifty blend of quickness and toughness. Welker has dropped 10 passes this season, but he’d have to drop a lot more than that before Brady would give up on him. There’s still nobody you’d rather throw to on a key third down. All-purpose tight end Aaron Hernandez has the versatility and athleticism to line up everywhere. He’s speedy, has soft hands, and will fight for every inch — sometimes to a fault. There’s no need to risk injury or a turnover for 1 extra yard, unless you’re at the goal line. Brandon Lloyd should get more targets with Julian Edelman out. Lloyd has exceptional body control and can stretch the field, but he may have the quietest 50 catches in NFL history. Donte’ Stallworth has great speed and a familiarity with this offense. Houston’s secondary will struggle.

Passing yards per game

New England offense: 285.5 (Sixth)

Houston defense: 235.0 (19th)

EDGE: Patriots

When the Texans run