I wouldn't call the Stros a juggernaut but they are playing in their 2nd series in 3 years and they lost game one 5-4. They are a very good team.
And, clearly, the Nats are not inferior. They did beat the Dodgers who had the 2nd best record behind Houston and swept a good team in St. Louis.
The Nats got over a significant hurdle winning game 1 over Cole, getting at least a split out of the first 2 games in Houston, but its far from over. Especially with the Nats having Corbin and Sanchez yet to start and a questionable bullpen.