Texans Look to Build on Momentum Against Struggling Titans
- Nov 23, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 24, 2024
The Houston Texans head into Sunday’s matchup against the Tennessee Titans riding high after a resounding 34-10 victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football. Snapping a streak of three losses in four games, the Texans turned in a complete performance on both sides of the ball, setting the stage for another pivotal game against a divisional rival. At 2-8 under first-year head coach Brian Callahan, the Titans have endured a turbulent season, marked by injuries and growing pains for second-year quarterback Will Levis. While their record reflects struggles, the Titans remain a division foe capable of competing, making it essential for the Texans to establish control early.
Injury Report: Key Absences for Both Teams
Injury updates could play a significant role in determining the outcome. The Texans are set to welcome back star defensive end Will Anderson Jr. and rookie cornerback Kamari Lassiter, boosting a defense that has already been formidable. However, they’ll be without defensive tackle Foley Fatukasi and swing tackle Blake Fisher, with defensive lineman Denico Autry likely sidelined as well.
On the Titans’ side, the absence of cornerback La’Jarius Sneed, who was placed on injured reserve, and the uncertainty around slot corner Roger McCreary further thin their secondary. Backup running back Tyjae Spears, a key change-of-pace option, is also out, further hampering the Titans’ offensive depth.
Keys to the Game: Offense
The Texans’ keys to victory on offense start with protecting quarterback C.J. Stroud. The new offensive line, led by the tandem of Jarrett Patterson at center and Juice Scruggs at left guard, showed significant improvement against a Dallas front anchored by Micah Parsons, surrendering just one sack. This week’s challenge intensifies with the presence of Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, one of the league’s premier interior defenders. Simmons, who boasts 25 pressures on 238 pass rushes and a lightning-fast 0.92-second get-off, poses a significant threat to a Texans interior line that has allowed 112 pressures this season—third-most in the NFL. Scruggs, in particular, faces a tough matchup as he transitions into his new role at left guard, where he’s allowed eight pressures on 76 pass-block snaps (Next Gen Stats). Success against Simmons will require a collective effort and precise execution to maintain Stroud’s clean pocket.
Another offensive priority is capitalizing on the intermediate passing game, where the Texans rank third in the NFL. The Titans’ zone-heavy scheme, featuring a mix of Cover 3 and Cover 4, offers opportunities for Stroud to connect with receivers like Nico Collins, who returned to action last week after missing five games. Collins, despite a limited snap count last week, could be a key weapon against a defense ranked 17th in intermediate pass coverage.
Lastly, the Texans must focus on attacking the edges in the run game. While their interior rushing ranks 29th in the league, the Titans’ defense is the best in the NFL at stopping runs between the tackles. Utilizing outside runs can help neutralize the impact of Simmons and rookie T’Vondre Sweat, allowing the Texans to generate production on the ground.
Keys to the Game: Defense
Defensively, the Texans have a significant advantage in the trenches. The Titans’ offensive line has been a glaring weakness, allowing the league’s highest pressure rate (43.6%) and ranking in the bottom five at four individual positions in pressure rate allowed. The Texans’ defensive line, led by Danielle Hunter and the returning Will Anderson Jr., is well-equipped to exploit this mismatch. Hunter, who has been utilized across both edges, and Anderson, one of the league’s rising stars, form a duo capable of overwhelming the Titans’ protection schemes. Generating consistent pressure on Will Levis will be a cornerstone of the Texans’ game plan.
Containing Titans wide receiver Calvin Ridley is another crucial focus. Cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. excelled in shadowing CeeDee Lamb last week, holding him to just two catches for 19 yards while adding two pass deflections and an interception. Stingley’s ability to neutralize Ridley could force Levis to look elsewhere, potentially leading to erratic throws or turnovers.
The Texans’ secondary must also stay prepared for Levis’ deep ball tendencies, as his strong arm and willingness to take risks often lead to big plays—or costly mistakes. Texans defenders must remain vigilant, even when their assignments appear covered, as Levis isn’t afraid to take chances.
Game Plan: Defense Over Flash
Ultimately, the Texans’ strategy mirrors the approach they employed against the Patriots and Cowboys: lean on the defense’s dominance over the Titans’ struggling offense. While fans may clamor for an offensive explosion, head coach DeMeco Ryans’ measured game plan prioritizes securing the win, regardless of aesthetics. The Texans must execute these keys effectively to build on their momentum and strengthen their position in the division race.
Prediction: Texans 38, Titans 9
The Texans’ combination of defensive dominance and improving offensive execution will likely be too much for the Titans to handle. Expect the Texans to capitalize on their mismatches and control the game from start to finish, cruising to a decisive 38-9 victory.
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