The Outlook for the Texans After a Devastating Loss to the Lions
- Nov 15, 2024
- 4 min read
The Houston Texans had a prime opportunity to showcase their legitimacy on the national stage in a Sunday Night Football matchup against the Detroit Lions. The game presented a chance to silence critics labeling them as an unproven team. For much of the night, it seemed the Texans were seizing that opportunity, heading into halftime with a commanding 23-7 lead after a dominant first half. They forced five interceptions from Jared Goff, one of the league’s most accurate quarterbacks, and appeared poised for a statement win.
But the second half told a different story. The Texans' offensive struggles resurfaced, leading to zero points after halftime, and they ultimately fell 26-23 in a gut-wrenching loss. Losing a game with a five-turnover advantage and a 16-point halftime lead is a tough pill to swallow, but after some reflection, it’s clear this loss provides valuable context for the Texans’ growth rather than a reason for despair.
Taking a Step Back
While the sting of the loss was severe in the moment, it's essential to zoom out and view the bigger picture. This was a game of inches. A few critical moments swung the game in favor of the Lions, and had those plays gone differently, the Texans might be viewed today as a top-five team and a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
Key plays that tilted the game include:
Rookie Kamari Lassiter’s interception being ruled down at the 1-yard line due to forward progress instead of a touchback, leading to a throw away Texans drive and a Lions touchdown on the ensuing possession after getting the ball at midfield.
Two long field goals by Lions kicker Jack Bates that barely cleared the uprights.
A missed pass interference call on a pivotal third down targeting Xavier Hutchinson late in the game.
Multiple drops by Texans receivers and tight ends in crucial moments
Questionable holding call on Juice Scruggs at the 2 yard line, resulting in a field goal instead of a potential touchdown
One uncharacteristically bad throw by C.J. Stroud to a wide open Tank Dell in the endzone, costing the Texans a touchdown a the most and field goal at the least
These moments may sound like excuses, but they illustrate that the Texans stood toe-to-toe with one of the league’s best teams. Rather than viewing the loss as a sign of failure, it should be seen as proof that Houston is close to making the leap into legitimate contention.
Navigating Adversity
The Texans are still very early in their competitive window under head coach DeMeco Ryans and quarterback C.J. Stroud. Building a contender takes time, and Sunday’s loss highlighted both how far the Texans have come and where they need to improve. Despite losing three of their last four games, Houston has faced significant adversity, including:
Star wide receiver Nico Collins missing time with a hamstring injury.
The devastating loss of Stefon Diggs to a torn ACL.
A new-look offensive line adjusting to life without Kenyon Green.
Games being missed by other key players such as Will Anderson Jr., Mario Edwards Jr., Jimmie Ward, Kamari Lassiter, Joe Mixon and more.
Collins’ absence alone has been significant. The Texans are 4-1 with him in the lineup but just 2-3 without him, including three losses in their last four games. His return will force defenses to respect Houston’s vertical passing game, creating opportunities for Tank Dell and Joe Mixon while reducing the pressure on the offensive line.
Offensive Line and Play Calling
The Texans' offensive line remains a work in progress. Sunday marked the debut of a new lineup with Juice Scruggs at left guard and Jarrett Patterson back at center. While the unit still allowed a high pressure rate, there were signs of improvement in pass protection. Patterson’s return should resolve some of the communication issues that have plagued the interior line, and further cohesion will only help.
Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik and the Texans’ offense have faced intense criticism for failing to meet expectations after a strong 2023 campaign. However, with Collins returning and Mixon healthy, this group has the potential to rebound. Adding Collins will force defenses to respect the passing game, opening up the run and reducing the need for risky blitzes.
A Favorable Path Ahead
The Texans’ remaining schedule provides hope for a strong finish. With the 26th-easiest slate in the league (.431 opponent win percentage), Houston has a clear path to climb back into prime playoff seeding. Key matchups include:
Two games against struggling division rival Tennessee Titans and one against the Jacksonville Jaguars
A home game against the faltering Miami Dolphins.
A road game against the historically bad Dallas Cowboys, now starting backup QB Cooper Rush.
The Texans also have two marquee matchups remaining: a road game against the Kansas City Chiefs and a Christmas Day showdown with the Baltimore Ravens. These games provide opportunities to prove their growth since the Lions loss and establish themselves as contenders heading into the playoffs.
Conclusion
This loss to the Lions may have been heartbreaking, but it showcased the Texans’ ability to compete with the best. While their offense remains a concern, the return of key players and an improving offensive line offer reasons for optimism. Perspective matters: this is still a young team building its identity under a new regime.
The Texans are on the verge of turning the corner, and the path ahead gives them the chance to prove it. By learning from tough losses and capitalizing on a favorable schedule, Houston can reestablish itself as a playoff contender and position itself as a team to be feared come January.
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