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[Houston Texans]

Value of Things: By the Numbers

The Houston Texans have begun the season 0-2 after coming into the season with lofty expectations. Unlike the first game, there will be some coaching decisions that come under the microscope in this one. In particular, the Texans had second and goal from the one and came away with zero points. Those lack of points ended up being the difference in the game. Obviously, if he had known then what he knows now he would have kicked the field goal. Hindsight is always 20/20.

There were more positives in this one as the Texans almost pulled it out in the end. The ending was reminiscent of 2023 when the Texans seem to come down to the last two minutes with the lead in nearly every game. They were able to hold off their opponents more often that season. They weren’t able to do it on this night. It is true that they played two likely playoff teams, but they still find themselves in last place of the AFC South.

The Numbers​

• Total Yards: Texans 46/266. Bucs 72/360
• Rushing Yards: Texans 19/84, Bucs 30/169
• Passing Yards: Texans 27/182, Bucs 42/191
• Third Down: Texans 2/9, Bucs 6/14
• Sacks: Texans 4, Bucs 3
• Penalties: Texans 6/45, Bucs 7/45
• Turnovers: Texans 0, Bucs 0
• Time of Possession: Texans 22:51, Bucs 37:09

This game might get me to bust out a cumulative stat I used during the dark days. Essentially, I tracked the net difference between rushing yards and rushing yards allowed. This one was one-sided for much of the game. C.J. Stroud had 27 yards on four carries. So, the running backs had 57 yards on 15 carries. I suppose it’s not terrible, but it does deserve a special comment. DeMeco Ryans has made great pains to talk about how he wants to play a physical brand of football. You can want in one hand and pee in the other and see which one fills up first.

The total sum of what you do is the truest measure of your devotion. The Texans defense made some physical plays and the Nick Chubb touchdown was impressive, but by and large they were outmuscled on both sides of the ball for much of the night. If you looked at the box score you would be led to believe the score was more lopsided. It wasn’t. We can look at why in the good, bad, and ugly.

The Good​

Frank Bush should get a lifetime contract to coach special teams for the Houston Texans. They routinely have one of the best units in the NFL and they made several key plays throughout the game that made the game a lot closer than what it should have been. Jaylin Noel was a revelation returning the ball. He had two big kickoff returns in the first half that gave the offense solid field position and returned a fourth quarter punt deep into Bucs territory.

Add in the blocked punt in the fourth quarter and you can almost account for half of the Texans points through special teams alone. Ka’imi Fairbairn continues to be one of the more reliable kickers in the NFL as well. No one wins the Super Bowl just with good special teams but every once in awhile they can make the difference between victory and defeat. They almost pulled it out for the Texans on Monday night.

The Bad​

Grading the Texans defense is difficult on this evening. They were very uneven. There were some big moments as they shut down the Bucs for much of the second, third, nnd fourth quarters. They allowed the touchdown that won the Bucs the game in the last two minutes. I’m sure Ryans will say that the offense did enough to win. I’m not sure I would go that far, but when you make the opposing team go 80+ yards to win, you should come out with the victory.

What I’m sure he won’t feel good about and what no Texans fan should feel good about is the fact that the Bucs were able to run the ball at will nearly the entire night. It put the Bucs in third and shorts and allowed them to convert nearly 50 percent of their third downs. They stayed on the field while the Texans were not able to stay on the field. In retrospect, expecting the defense to hold them down for nearly 40 minutes is probably asking a bit much. This looks like a top five defense and when you are a top five defense, more is expected of you.

The Ugly​

Don’t let the robust 19 points of offense fool you. That sum might seem like an offensive bonanza if you were the take the DeLorean back to the 1940s and the single wing. Three of the points were directly from a blocked punt where the offense proceeded to gain zero yards in three plays. They did score a touchdown in the final drive, but they likely would have scored a field goal regardless. Maybe if they had floundered around on that drive they might have won the game through their own futility.

The coup de grace was the second and goal from the one yard line that somehow led to zero points. Two very questionable pass plays were called on third and fourth down because the coaching staff had absolutely zero faith that they could generate a push on a running play. After watching their Nick Chubb run go nowhere on second down I suppose they can’t be blamed for that opinion. I certainly appreciate the idea that you want to go for it because normally that is the analytical thing to do and that it shows confidence in your team. Your team doesn’t deserve confidence right now. Take the points.

C.J. Stroud wasn’t brilliant again as he finished 13 of 24 with a touchdown. So, he has one touchdown pass on the season and nearly 400 yards passing. That’s not going to blow anyone’s skirt up, but this scheme is not doing him any favors. Everything looks difficult. I suppose a Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes, or Lamar Jackson could make something happen in this offense. Stroud is none of those guys. He might be more similar to Baker Mayfield. Mayfield seemed to have an easier time even with the constant pressure from the defensive line. Is that on Nick Caley? Maybe. Is some of it on Stroud? Maybe. If the offense has another down week next week the whispers will become shouts.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/the-value-of-things/71159/value-of-things-by-the-numbers

 

[Houston Texans]

The Day After the Day After: Aftermath of the Houston Texans’ loss to the Tampa Bay Bucs

The Day After the Day After…when the raw, immediate emotions from the aftermath of a game diminish into the realm of clarity and the proverbial (or literal) hangover no longer haunts the mind. With that, a review of Week 2:

The script for the “Most Interesting Defense in the World” flips: In the 2+ years under the most interesting defensive coordinator in the world Matt Burke, the Texans’ defense found itself needing to hold off the opponent in the final seconds. In 2023, the defense held off the Saints, Cardinals, Broncos, Colts when those teams needed touchdowns to tie or win. Last season, it held off final charges from the Colts and Dolphins to secure such victories. Historically, Houston would surrender enough yards for the FG (see ATL and CAR in 2023, GB and DET in 2024). However, the 2025 defense failed to keep the Bucs out of the endzone. Was the defense likely tired from being on the field for almost 37 minutes prior to that final drive? Sure. One could argue after so many successful holds to prevent a team from score a game winning/tying TD, the team was due for some regression. Still, if Houston wants to get where it wants to go, the defense has to lead the way, and it must close out games like this.

The Two 4th Downs that decided the game: In a game like this, it can come down to but a couple of plays. Here, two 4th down plays decided the fate of the contest. One was a fourth down conversion not made, the other one was.

• HOU: 4th and Goal from the Tampa Bay 1 (4th Qtr, 11:19). Houston comes out in shotgun. This is the 3rd consecutive play starting from the TB 1 yard line. A Nick Chubb run for no gain and a Stroud incompletion to Collins got Houston to his point. Given that Houston trailed early in the 4th by 4 and was at the TB 1, few could argue against the call to go for it here. Stroud takes the snap and rolls to his left, along with most of his eligible receivers. He targets Collins, but throws high and to the right of Collins, who is under good coverage.
• TB: 4th and 10 from the TB 32 (4th Qtr, 1:24). While the Bucs still had its full complement of timeouts, this play likely meant ball game. Mayfield took the shotgun snap, desperate to find some open receiver to keep the drive alive. Houston’s front four got some good push all along the O-line. LB To’oTo’o then came on a delayed blitz along the right side of the Bucs’ line. However, he did not take the greatest angle and Mayfield was able to side-step his rush enough to only get a weak-arm outreach from the LB. From there, Mayfield saw the middle of the field wide open, as any Texans defender not rushing was in deeper coverage. He gets 15 yards before S Gardner-Johnson takes him down.

A big momentum swing on both 4th downs. The goal-line stand was somewhat mitigated by Houston with the follow-on punt block, but they only managed a FG. That left the score 13-14, which played a major factor later in the game, when Houston had to go for 2 when Chubb scored near the 2-min warning. A 5 point-lead still means a team needs a TD to win. However, if Houston gets that TD earlier in the 4th, the score is then 17-14. The strategic direction of the game completely changes then. Even if Houston doesn’t get the punt block and doesn’t get the FG, a lead is a lead. Also, if Houston still scores that final TD later in the 4th quarter, then the game is effectively over at 24-14. As for Tampa Bay, that scramble put the wind in their sails, and the Bucs marched down the field on a tired and slightly demoralized defense.

Special Teams almost won it for Houston. On a night when the vaunted defense couldn’t check the punishing Tampa Bay ground attack and where the offense was still held back by low-caliber line play and inconsistency, special teams needed to come through. In the second half, they definitely did. In the 4th quarter, after a potentially game-altering goal-line stand (see previous section), Houston needed something to flip back its way. The Bucs moved the ball to near midfield, seemingly moving a struggling Texans offense out of any chance to score. Then Jakob Johnson blocks the punt. The ball ended up back at the TB 35, leading to a Houston FG. Then, later in the 4th, Jaylin Noel provided a 53-yard punt return that set up the Texans for the go-ahead TD. Overall, special teams played a better quality game here than in LA. Most of the coverage on the game laments the Bucs’ poor special teams (they struggled in Atlanta), but let us not completely discount the Texans’ role in making the Bucs special teams look bad.

Going into the early bye with a losing record seems almost a certainty now. Having an extremely early bye is a strange season marker. However, based on the makeup of the schedule, the idea of going into that bye in Week 6 with a losing record didn’t seem all that far-fetched. With a trip to Baltimore slated for Week 5, Houston seemingly will enter the Week 6 bye, best case, at 2-3. Plenty of season to go, and the offense line can settle in, players like Mixon can come back from injury, and the back part of the schedule sets up nicely for Houston. Yet, it is also not hard to think that the games at Jacksonville and against Tennessee at NRG are must-wins. 2-3 is one thing. 1-4 or 0-5…well, then we are having a completely different discussion.

FUN WITH NUMBERS:

3: Times that Houston started 0-2 and still managed to make the playoffs. Only 11.5% of teams since 1990 have done so. Houston’s done it three times. 2015, 2018 and 2023 started 0-2 and the Texans ended as AFC South Champions (9-7, 11-5, 10-7 respectively). Not ideal, but not impossible either.

22.2%: Houston’s 3rd Down conversion percentage this season. Only two game, but teams do not find much success at that clip. This is dead-last in the league by a considerable margin.

GAME BALLS

WR/KR Jaylin Noel: His 53-yard punt return was his main highlight, part of his 67 total punt return yards on three returns (22.3 yards/return) and 78 yards on three kick returns (26.0yds/return). He was not targeted as a receiver in 15 snaps, but he stood out as a special teams weapon.

DE Danielle Hunter: Hunter’s line for night: 5 tackles (3 solo), 2 TFLs/2 Sacks and a FF. He also went over 100 sacks for his career. Anderson also added a sack to his season total.

SHOULD BE FORCED TO LISTEN TO JOE BUCK NARRATE EVERY SINGLE EVENT FROM MONDAY NIGHT ON REPEAT WHILE CLEANING OUT TORO’S STABLE WITH ONLY A TOOTHBRUSH

Goal Line Play Calling/Execution: Houston got the ball to the TB 1-yard line early in the 4th quarter and executed one Chubb run up the middle and two mis-fired passes to Collins. Last week, Houston actually used the tush push on a 4th and 2 to convert inside Rams territory last week? Would that not be a consideration here to get only one yard? You don’t want Stroud taking too many shots, but you’ve shown it can be done, even if Vea is a far superior nose tackle to his Rams’ counterpart. And no play-action of any sort on either pass play? Good play-calling depends on execution (Stroud takes his blame here), but poor creativity from Caley here.

Run Defense: Tampa Bay’s two main backs combined for over 136 yards rushing. Throw in Mayfield’s 33 yards and the Texans’ run D had a game to forget. Big reason why the Bucs won time of possession and the Texans’ D struggled on the last drive. Last week, Houston only surrendered 71 total yards on the ground.

Houston has a short-turn to prep for its visit to Jacksonville and the 1-1 Jaguars. This will be a game where both teams will want to put aside last-second losses. Also, there might…MIGHT, be some other sub-plots of note from the last time these two dueled. Kickoff is this Sunday at noon CDT on CBS/Paramount+. See y’all there.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/analy...the-houston-texans-loss-to-the-tampa-bay-bucs

 

[Houston Texans]

Injured Texans WRs look to boost struggling passing game

The Houston Texans have unfortunately stumbled out of the gate of the 2025 season, beginning 0-2 after heartbreaking losses to both the Los Angeles Rams and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This is their worst start since 2023, where they also started 0-2.

In both contests, the defense held serve for the most part, only allowing 14 to L.A. and 20 to Tampa.(It was 14 for the majority of the game before Baker engineered the game winning drive in the fourth for the final score.)

However, the Texans offense didn’t do their part to help secure the victories, scoring a measly 9 points in game one and a disjointed 19 in the second. Their 28 points through two weeks ranks dead last in the NFL behind other 0-2 teams in the Panthers and Titans.

That’s not the kind of output that Head Coach DeMeco Ryans had in mind for new coming offensive coordinator Nick Caley in year three of quarterback C.J. Stroud.

Speaking of C.J., his performances have been uneven at best to start the season. His 395 total passing yards so far have him ranked 30th, only in front of the Cardinals’ Kyler Murray (383) and oddly Tampa’s Baker Mayfield (382).

His lone touchdown pass Monday night has him tied with Tyrod Taylor and Cam Ward for second fewest among qualified signal callers (Jalen Hurts has 0. Thank you ‘tush push’).

To be fair, the offense has not had the services of three key pieces to start their campaign. That being because of injuries to starting running back Joe Mixon (foot) and newly acquired wide receivers Christian Kirk and Braxton Berrios (hamstrings). That’s a 1,000 yard rusher and a 700-1,000 yard receiver (Kirk) that’s been missing from the offensive side of the ball.

However, a news break happened yesterday that could be key to turning the season around in quick fashion. And that being, according to multiple sources, the Houston Texans expect to receive wide receivers Christian Kirk and Braxton Berrios back for their week three road game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

It may not be a hot take to say that week three might be a virtual “must win” for the Texans, as they cannot risk falling to 0-3 if they’re truly aiming to step into “AFC Elite” status. Especially, when their division counterpart in the Indianapolis Colts have started 2-0 on the strength of unexpected quality performances by their new QB Daniel Jones (588 yards (second in NFL), 2 TD’s, and 111.1 passer rating (seventh in NFL)).

With the return of their WR2 in Kirk and quality depth piece in Berrios, C.J. and Caley may finally be able to turn the corner and establish a consistent rhythm in the passing game.

The Texans traded a ‘26 seventh rounder to the Jaguars for Kirk. He was envisioned to be a veteran slot option who could also stretch the field on any defense. In signing Berrios during free agency, they are provided with quick receiver who also can double up as a kick returner if called upon. Braxton also grabbed a 14-yard receiving touchdown against the Vikings in the preseason from Davis Mills.

With their reintegration, hopefully they can help a sputtering pass unit that is currently ranked eighth worst in receiving yards (395) and fourth worst in touchdowns (1).

I fully expect the Texans to come out aggressive and attempt to reestablish an offensive identity in week three. Let’s just hope that converts to a much needed W in Jacksonville, and serves as a reminder to the league that the Texans are not a team to take lightly when considering the power hierarchy in the AFC.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/houst...ans-wrs-look-to-boost-struggling-passing-game

 

[Houston Texans]

Value of Things: Roses and Thorns

Another week goes by in the NFL. With every passing week the picture becomes that much more clear. Of course, for your Houston Texans that picture doesn’t look all that good. The Texans come into their battle with the Jacksonville Jaguars with an 0-2 record. The list of teams that have gone from 0-2 to the playoffs is not unsubstantial. Heck, the Texans did it just two years ago in their first season under DeMeco Ryans. The list of teams advancing to the playoffs after starting 0-3 is considerably shorter.

Just as a reminder, we look at PFF scores for individual players and we look at the team rankings in various categories. Those two things give us some clues as to how each team will likely approach the game and it gives us some insight into how the game might go. Of course, individual people will take that information and use it for their own purposes. We at SBNation and BRB do not officially recommend any specific play, but we obviously have a relationship with FanDuel, so take that for what it’s worth.

Jacksonville Jaguars​

• LB Devin Lloyd— 91.2
• LB Foyesade Okuokun— 89.8
• S Eric Murray— 83.7
• C Robert Hainsey— 77.5
• G Ezra Cleveland— 75.5

Texans fans will notice a familiar name there in the top five. On balance, changing out C.J. Gardner-Johnson for Murray will probably end up working out in the Texans favor. Naturally, they thought they would also have Jimmie Ward on the roster. Had they known then what they know now they may have sprung for the extra dough to keep Murray in the fold. The NFL is interesting because some positions are more impactful than others. When your best players are not skill position guys, it can put some strain on your team. We have seen that happen with the Indianapolis Colts for years.

The Jaguars will continue to have a certain ceiling as long as they don’t get top end production from their quarterback, running backs, and wide receivers. As you will see, the backs have done well overall, but none of them have been brilliant on their own. Brian Thomas shows some promise, but none of their guys are elite at their position.

Houston Texans​

• DE Danielle Hunter— 90.6
• G Ed Ingram— 83.8
• DE Will Anderson— 80.4
• LB Azeez Al-Shaair— 80.4
• TE Dalton Schultz— 72.6

The Texans have similar issues. The main difference is that the strength of their defense comes in their main pass rushers. Eventually, that should lead to some big plays on defense, but we haven’t seen those yet. Seeing Ingram’s name here was a huge surprise and hopefully it is a harbinger of things to come. If the Texans can find just one more lineman outside of Ingram and Tytus Howard then maybe some good things will start to happen.

Still, the Texans have similar issues with their skill position players. None of them are really showing up making big plays. Obviously, when you are last in the NFL in points scored, it means that not a lot of guys are making plays. That will need to change in order for the Texans to be more successful.

How will the Jaguars offense attack the Texans?​

This one is pretty simple. The Jaguars are the number one team in the NFL in rushing yards. They have three solid running backs that can all take carries and produce solid yardage. We saw the Bucs gash the Texans all night on Monday for rushing yards. The question is whether they will succeed on Sunday. The NFL is all about adjustments and we will need to see what the Texans come up on Sunday. However, if the history of this season follows what has been done already, this will be a huge issue for the Texans.

Lawrence has been more successful this season than he was last year, but he still is not performing like an elite quarterback that everyone thought he would be coming out of Clemson. Still, the running game creates play action opportunities for him to make some easy throws and get some chunk plays when they may not have made them on their own.

How will the Texans offense attack the Jaguars?​

I’d love to say that they would use the running game to keep the pass rush from killing C.J. Stroud, but early indications are that they won’t for whatever reason. So, the key to the game will be the return of Christian Kirk. Kirk gives Stroud a nice safety valve option and a second receiver that the Jaguars must respect. The problem in the first two weeks is that no one has stepped up to be a secondary threat once teams double up Nico Collins. Stroud has spread the wealth some, but he needs that consistent second threat.

Perhaps, the Texans can almost do an inverse of the tried and true run opening up the pass. It almost needs to work in reverse. If the Jaguars have to dedicate a fifth defensive back to account for Kirk in the slot, then it might be easier for the offensive line to open up some holes in the running game. Both Chubb and Marks have shown some running ability when they get space, so we can hope we see more of that on Sunday.

How will the Jaguars defense attack the Texans?​

DeMeco Ryans can tell us how close he thinks this offense is. He can tell us how improved the offensive line is. Maybe he can make some people believe that, but this team looks almost exactly the same as last season. You beat the Texans by getting to Stroud. The best way to do that is to shut down the running game and make the Texans one-dimensional. This has been a lot easier done than said even though we say it every week.

How will the Texans defense attack the Jaguars?​

Simply put, the Texans need some big plays on defense to shorten the field or actually put points on the board. That means that Trevor Lawrence needs to make some bad throws or get strip sacked. In order to do that the Texans will need to slow down their running game enough to put them behind the chains. It will be easier said than done, but they have shown that they were able to do it in the past.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/the-value-of-things/71241/value-of-things-roses-and-thorns

 

[Houston Texans]

Thursday Night Football Open Thread – Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills

American Hero Case Keenum. | Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images

It’s another Thursday Night Football tilt! This week it’s an all AFC East match between—ooooh. Oh, dear.

A matchup between the woeful Miami Dolphins and the Buffalo Bills.

Imagine Mike Tyson fighting Don Knotts, and you’ve got this week’s game.

Here’s what you need to know to watch tonight’s game:

Who: Miami Dolphins (0-2) at Buffalo Bills (2-0)

What: Thursday Night Football

Where: Highmark Stadium, Orchard Park, NY

When: Thursday, September 18, 7:15 p.m. CDT

Why: Because I have to fill this section with something; maybe we see a fiftyburger?

How: Amazon Prime Video*, NFL+*, Hulu + Live TV* (*subscriptions required)

Enjoy the game, y’all.

Go, Texans!

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/gener...l-open-thread-miami-dolphins-at-buffalo-bills

 

[Houston Texans]

Eye of the Cyclones: Higgins and Noel Week 2 Report

Welcome to week 2 of the Cyclone tracker!

This is where we follow our resident weather themed twins in rookie receivers Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, both out of Iowa State (hence, the “Cyclone” twins).

As always, there will be analysis, projections, commentary, and relevant updates that happen in real time.

Week 2 Cyclones Tracker:

Name: Jayden Higgins

Position: WR

Projected WK. 2 storm path: 3.7 targets, 2.3 receptions, 28.2 yards, 0.2 TD’s

Actual WK. 2 path: 1 target, 1 reception, 28 yards, 0 TD’s

Assessment: After a week 1 loss where Higgins logged 2 receptions for 32 yards and 0 TDs, one would think the 6 ‘4” Iowa State alumni would follow it up with a more solid statistical outing. Alas, that would not be.

Against the Bucs, Jayden finished with one less reception (1), four less yards (28), and still 0 TD’s. I repeat, 28 yards on one catch. Yet, he never saw the ball again for the rest of the game.

It’s not at all the fault of the rookie receiver, as the new-look Caley offense has been highly underwhelming to start this season’s campaign. The Texans’ inability, or unwillingness, to better feature its young talent has helped hamstring a unit that ranks at the bottom of the league in various significant offensive categories.

In a virtual “must win” against Jacksonville this Sunday, hopefully Caley finds a plan that maximizes Houston’s tools and leads to a much needed first victory of the season.

Week 3 Projections: 3.7 targets, 2.3 receptions, 29.3 yards, 0.2 TD’s, 6.2 fantasy pts

Cyclone 2:

Name: Jaylin Noel

Position: WR/PR & KR

Projected WK. 2 storm path: 2.9 targets, 2 receptions, 21 yards, 0.1 TD’s

Actual WK. 2 path: 0 targets, 0 receptions, 0 yards, 0 TD’s, 145 return yards

Assessment: Here’s an excerpt on Noel’s week 2 outing vs. Tampa Bay, courtesy of thefantasyfootballers.com:

“Noel was given the fewest offensive snaps (15) among Houston’s wide receivers, but he impacted the game on special teams. He averaged 26.0 yards on three kickoff returns and 22.3 on punt returns, including a 53-yarder that set up the Texans’ final score with just over two minutes left.”

The fact that Noel has yet to see significant opportunities in the Texans’ passing attack is itself a travesty. He was arguably discussed just as highly as Higgins coming out of the ’25 draft. (If not more so, depending on whose commentary you listened to.)

Standing at 5′ 10″ and weighing around 200 lbs., I projected Noel to be a larger built Tank Dell (5’ 10”, 165 lbs.) in this offense. In spite of his size, former OC Bobby Slowik had no issue with featuring a dynamic receiver like Tank. Before getting hurt, Tank had amassed: 75 targets, 47 receptions, 709 yards, 7 TD’s, and an average of 15.1 yards per catch.

There is no reason for Jaylin to not be able to be just as effective with Caley at the helm. He’s 30 lbs heavier, and he actually posted a faster 40 time at the combine with 4.39 compared to Dell’s 4.49.

With the Jaguars on the schedule, there’s an opportunity to build on Noel’s week 2 performance and integrate that productivity into an anemic passing game. Their season might just depend on that decision.

Week 3 Projections: 2.9 targets, 2 receptions, 21.4 yards, 0.2 TD’s, 4.9 fantasy pts.

All projections provided courtesy of PFF.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/general/71243/eye-of-the-cyclones-higgins-and-noel-week-2-report

 

[Houston Texans]

Texans vs. Jags: How to watch, TV schedule, and more

You know what they say: third time’s the charm. Tomorrow the Houston Texans take on the Jacksonville Jaguars in northern Florida. But will you be able to watch it where you live?

I can help with that; thanks to 506 Sports for their big board, here is where you can expect to watch the Texans game in your part of the world:

View Link

CBS Single Games

Red: Cincinnati Bengals at Minnesota Vikings (Announcers: Jim Nantz, Tony Romo; Referee: Ron Torbert)
Blue: Pittsburgh Steelers at New England Patriots (Announcers: Ian Eagle, J.J. Watt; Referee: Clete Blakeman)
Orange: Houston Texans at Jacksonville Jaguars (Announcers: Spero Dedes, Adam Archuleta; Referee: Alex Kemp)
Light Blue: Indianapolis Colts at Tennessee Titans (Announcers: Tom McCarthy, Ross Tucker; Referee: Scott Novak)
Green: LATE GAME
Yellow: LATE GAME

Here’s what you need to know to watch the game today:

Who: Houston Texans at Jacksonville Jaguars

Where: EverBank Stadium, Jacksonville, FL

When: Sunday, September 20, 12:00 pm CST

Why: Because it has to get better. Right? Right???

TV: CBS (Spero Dedes, Adam Archuleta)

Radio: KILT Sports Radio 610 AM

Streaming: Hulu + Live TV*, NFL+*, Paramount+*, YouTubeTV* (via Sunday Ticket) (*subscriptions required)

Current Game Odds: ​

Point Spread:​

Houston Texans (+1.5) (opened at +1.5)
Jacksonville Jaguars (-1.5) (opened at –1.5)

Over/Under: 43.5 (opened at 43.5)​

Money Line Odds:​

Houston Texans (+110) (opened at +102)
Los Angeles Rams (-130) (opened at -120)
(per FanDuel Sportsbook)

Go Texans!

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/houst...ans-vs-jags-how-to-watch-tv-schedule-and-more

 

[Houston Texans]

Houston Texans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars: Injury Report

The Texans have dropped their first two games of the 2025 season, and are looking to bounce back against a beatable Jaguars team in Jacksonville.

One thing the Jaguars did well this offseason, was adding talent around their franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence, and Houston may have their hands full. Wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. has elite potential, they drafted Travis Hunter in the first-round and have a dynamic running back in Travis Etienne. Not to mention the underrated signing of Dyami Brown, in free agency, who has been one of Lawrence’s favorite targets.

As far as their defense goes, that is where Houston will look to take advantage. They have one of the top pass-rushers in the league in Josh Allen, but their secondary remains weak, and the offense must capitalize.

Here is a look at the final injury report:

FULL PARTICIPATION​

-CB Kamari Lassiter (Knee)

-S Jalen Pitre (Rib)

-WR Christian Kirk (Hamstring)

-WR Braxton Berrios (Hamstring)

-DL Darrell Taylor (Hip)

-C Jake Andrews (Ankle)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE​

-CB Jaylin Smith (Hamstring) OUT

Houston has been without several starters throughout the beginning of this season, and are now set to get two important pieces back, in center Jake Andrews, along with wide receiver Christian Kirk.

Getting Kirk back is going to be massive for a Houston offense that has been struggling mightily. Being able to depend on someone outside of Nico Collins will be good for C.J. Stroud, who has looked off overall.

The Texans have an opportunity this weekend to turn things around, and potentially save their season.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/houst...-texans-vs-jacksonville-jaguars-injury-report

 

[Houston Texans]

Four ways the Texans can revive their offense vs. the Jaguars

Down for the count, tied for last in the AFC South at 0-2 with the Tennessee Titans, the Houston Texans are in desperate need of a get-right game. The first two games against NFC playoff teams were a real shock to the system, and now the Texans will seek their first win against a familiar opponent: the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Since quarterback C.J. Stroud and head coach DeMeco Ryans joined the Houston Texans in 2023, they’ve kept the pesky Jaguars under control. They’ve gone 3-1 against Jacksonville, with Stroud passing for seven touchdowns and averaging a passer rating over 110 while facing them. Such a small sample size of games should be taken with a grain of salt, though, especially considering the elephant in the room: the current state of Houston’s offense.

Between penalties and head-scratching sacks, the Houston Texans offense has generated only brief spurts of movement downfield. Largely relying on great routes by their wide receivers or the occasional 6-10+ yard rush by their running backs, the Texans are clearly still a work in progress in offensive coordinator Nick Caley’s scheme. Wide receivers Nico Collins, Xavier Hutchinson, and tight end Dalton Schultz have tried their best to make up for an inconsistent ground game, but points have still been exceedingly difficult to come by.

This pitiful state has dumbfounded many Texans fans, including myself, who were expecting a snappier offense. Maybe it’s the high rate of pressure in the pocket Stroud is still receiving, maybe it’s a result of a poor rushing attack, or maybe it’s just Stroud himself, but whatever it is, it has every other Texans fans theorizing in their armchairs about what is really going on with the offense.

While the answer likely resides somewhere in the middle of all of the theories, the Texans can make those claims all moot by unleashing the offense against today in Jacksonville. But, how will they do that? What will need to change to get this show on the road? Well, out the many, many avenues to curing a stagnant offense, I can think of four paths Houston can take today in order to get the offense back on track:

4. Take advantage of WR Christian Kirk in the short-pass​

One major evolution to the offense that doesn’t require any schematic changes will be the return (or the arrival) of Christian Kirk to the starting lineup. Kirk missed the first two games due to a hamstring injury, but he will now suit up for his first game in battle red…against his former team.

Besides the added emotion of a revenge game, Kirk’s speed, savvy, and knowledge of the opponent will provide the perfect compliment to Nico Collins’ outside-receiver acumen. As a slot receiver in an offense that steals notes from Sean McVay’s and Josh McDaniels’ schemes, Kirk should expect to receive a hefty amount of targets in his first game of the 2025 season. He may not be the x-factor superstar like Tank Dell was in 2023, but Kirk has plenty of juice to be a deadly chain-mover. Slants and out-routes will be his specialty, and if he’s covered, then this next player won’t be:

3. Get rookie RB Woody Marks the football in space​

Rookie running back Woody Marks may not be exploding onto the scene, but his handful of touches against Tampa Bay made all of the difference in Houston’s second scoring drive. It may just be one play, but it was enough to reenergize my bullish attitude towards him.

View Link

Before that big play, Woody Marks had already earned some fans (me) in the preseason, where his punishing rushing style between the tackles and blistering speed as a scatback could offer flashbacks to Joe Mixon before he suffered an ankle injury that will keep him sidelined seemingly indefinitely. But, now that the regular season is underway, Nick Caley has kept Marks largely behind the curtain. Some wondered when Marks received only scant snaps in the preseason if that had been intentionally done so in order to surprise regular season opponents with his functionality in the offense…and, well, if that were true, I couldn’t think of a better time to unveil his talents to the NFL world.

Against Jacksonville, Marks will be another weapon that the Texans can deploy to overwhelm the Jaguars’ defensive coverage, a weakness the Cincinnati Bengals exploited to beat them last week. Jags’ slot cornerback Jourdan Lewis is only one person, so he won’t be able to cover all of the speedsters Nick Caley may throw his way. You may not suspect Marks to get a lot of attention in today’s game, but the amount of pressure CJ Stroud could face from Jacksonville’s defensive line may force his gaze down to the flat, precisely where Woody Marks excels. But, besides those beloved dump-off pass, there is one counter Stroud could employ downfield that would turn the tides of the game…

2. If Stroud can manage the pocket and target the Jags’ CB Jarrian Jones​

Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud arrives as the symbolic face of the modern Houston Texans, for better and for worse. Whether the blame rests at his feet or not, Houston’s regression on offense in 2024 became the albatross around the neck of every major figure associated with the team. The major reshuffling of the entire supporting cast around Stroud has gone a long way to make the offense look fresh on paper, but the hot-and-cold woes that plagued the offense in 2024 appear to still be present. Battle Red Blog’s Mike Bullock went on to say in Brand new Houston offense, same old Texans results:

So far, Caley has many wondering why exactly Bobby Slowik was shown the door. The 2025 Texans offense ranks:

8th worst in total passing yards with 395

Tied for second worst in passing touchdowns with 1

3rd worst in passing first downs with 14

12th worst in rushing yards with 198

Tied for 5th worst in rushing first downs with 11

Tied for 2nd worst in touchdowns scored with only 2

– Mike Bullock

Granted, the Texans faced some talented NFC defenses to start the season, but that hasn’t stopped the questions surrounding Stroud and Nick Caley to start the season.

Enter Jaguars cornerback Jarrian Jones. Similar to Stroud, Jones has had a bit of a disjointed start to the 2025 season, giving up six catches, four first downs, 71 yards, and a touchdown in the first two games. He hasn’t been a complete disaster, but Stroud would benefit to look in his direction in today’s game. Xavier Hutchinson or Jayden Higgins could be Stroud’s favorite targets against the Jaguars…as long as he gets enough time in the pocket. If Stroud could turn back the clock to exactly two years ago, week three of the 2023 season, and return to the kind of high-arching, anticipatory throws that made him a rookie sensation, then he may find himself on the winning end of a get-right game in Jacksonville once again.

View Link

Another wildcard to this matchup is Jags rookie and Heisman Trophy winner CB/WR Travis Hunter. He earned more reps on defense last week against the Bengals and may end up receiving the lions’ share of CB2 reps yet again. Although, even if the offense continues to be stuck in the mud, Stroud might still be able to come away with a big win because of the #1 ticket to victory in today’s game: the Texans defense and special teams maintaining their dominant pace and giving the offense layup opportunities.

1. Score touchdowns, not field goals on short fields granted by special teams and defense​

So far this season, the Texans have started their offensive drive in opposing territory three times, once against the Rams and twice against the Buccaneers. In those three drives, Houston’s offense returned with just 13 points total; two field goals and one touchdown. The defense, as we’ve come to expect, has been top-of-line since the season began, kicking opposing offenses off the field like a bad habit and even forcing a massive turnover in week one against the Rams that could have won Houston the game if the offense successfully capitalized on it. Just like last year, both the defense and special teams have shown the power to take complete control over a contest, making momentum-swinging plays so that Stroud and the offense have a shorter field to work with.

Special teams specifically is where one of the more positive developments of the Houston Texans resides, as well. Kickoff, punt returner, and wide receiver Jaylin Noel has quickly become a fan favorite, utilizing his 4.39s 40-yard dash speed to rack up return yardage. He may earn some more highlights today as well, as the Jaguars currently have the lowest ranked special teams in the league. Battle Red Blog writer Clayton Anderson has been following the rookie Iowa State Cyclones very closely in his weekly reports, and he end up with glowing reviews for each of them by the end of the day!

Jaylin Noel is 1st in the NFL in avg punt return yards (17.3)

At the combine he ran a 4.39 40YD and jumped 41.5” in the vertical

Get this guy the rock

pic.twitter.com/BzINmwym3D

— Jordan Pun (@Texans_Thoughts) September 19, 2025

Buccaneers special teams having a nightmare second half:
• They missed field goal (38 yards)
• Gave up a blocked punt
• Gave up a 53-yard punt return #Texanspic.twitter.com/ih8F1dubU1

— John Breech (@johnbreech) September 16, 2025

More offensive production would steady the hearts of Texans fans the world over, but they could ultimately struggle on offense yet again and still win convincingly. If the Texans defense and special teams play like they did last week, Stroud should get plenty of opportunities to strike the knockout blow against the glitter kitties. Both Nick Caserio and Nick Caley have worked together to assemble a modern offense for Stroud, but it also reveals how their shared time in New England during the Tom Brady era maintains a lingering influence on them to this day. Many of the 2010s Patriots teams excelled at scoring off of turnovers, killing teams by ensuring they maximized on their mistakes. The ingredients to a similar offense are in Houston now, but to make it work, C.J. Stroud needs to be a catalyst to more touchdown drives and fewer field goals.

---

And that’s the list! I think we’re all a little desperate for a win here. Even the most skeptical Texans fans among us are probably are little surprised by the deflating start they’ve had in 2025, getting a notch in the win column could go a long way towards shaking off this rust that appears to be clinging to the offense. Much of the offseason was spent hyping up the new o-line and especially these new wide receivers, yet the results of these efforts have yet to appear; but that changes today. Even though Jacksonville’s defense has shown some moxie, I think we’ll finally get to see Stroud really take advantage of these new weapons, forcing Jacksonville into a hole that it won’t be able to climb out of.

What do you think, though? Will this finally be Stroud’s big return to rookie form, or will it be another defensive slugfest that the Texans will need to win via field goal? Let us know down in the comment section below!

GO TEXANS!!!!

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/sprin...exans-can-revive-their-offense-vs-the-jaguars

 

[Houston Texans]

Sunday Night Football Open Thread – Kansas City Chiefs at New York Giants

American Hero Case Keenum. | Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images

I still don’t want to talk about today’s game. So let’s watch a couple of unrelated teams on Sunday night.

Here’s what you need to know to watch tonight’s game:

Who: Kansas City Chiefs (0-2) at New York Giants (0-2)

What: Sunday Night Football

Where: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ

When: Sunday, September 21, 7:20 p.m. CDT

Why: Because much like the rest of us, you have also been waiting all day for Sunday night.

TV: NBC, Universo

Radio: Westwood One

Streaming: Fubo*, Hulu + Live TV*, NBC Sports, NFL+*, Peacock*, SlingTV*, YouTubeTV* (*subscription required)

Enjoy the game, y’all.

Go, Texans!

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/gener...-thread-kansas-city-chiefs-at-new-york-giants

 

[Houston Texans]

Monday Night Football Open Thread – Detroit Lions at Baltimore Ravens

American Hero Case Keenum. | Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images

Now that we’re back to one MNF game a week, we actually have a pretty good matchup which is a rarity for MNF. Two actual Super Bowl contenders will take to the field for our personal entertainment.

Here’s what you need to know to watch/listen to/stream tonight’s game:

Who: Detroit Lions (1-1) at Baltimore Ravens (1-1)

What: Monday Night Football

Where: M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD

When: Monday, September 22, 7:15 p.m. CDT

Why: Because the Sunday slate was so bad this has to make up for it.

TV: ABC, ESPN, ESPN Deportes

Radio: Westwood One

Streaming: ESPN*, Fubo*, Hulu + Live TV*, NFL+*, SlingTV*, YouTubeTV* (*subscription required)

Enjoy the game, y’all.

Go, Texans!

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/gener...open-thread-detroit-lions-at-baltimore-ravens

 

[Houston Texans]

Value of Things: By the Numbers

In 1984, the band Icicle Works released the song “Whisper to a scream.” As you might expect, the song starts softly and creshendos until the end. It did not make it high on the Billboard hits (#37) but seems to have held up over time as a 1980s anthem. The subject of the song seems to be a perfect artistic rendering of what we are seeing on Sundays (and Mondays). Anyone can write off one game. Plenty of teams have gone from 0-2 to the playoffs. 0-3 is wholly different historically and it is especially different when one side of the ball is responsible 90 percent of the suck.

Of course, I’m getting ahead of myself. As per usual, we begin with the numbers. The keys are starting to come into focus. When you see the team succeeding at one facet consistently or not succeeding at one facet consistently then we begin to see the team take some definition. Every team has an identity. Whether it is the identity they say they have is open to interpretation.

The Numbers​

• Total Yards: Texans 59/271, Jaguars: 66/291
• Rushing Yards: Texans 19/87, Jaguars 24/86
• Passing Yards: Texans 40/184, Jaguars 42/205
• Third Downs: Texans 4/15, Jaguars 4/15
• Sacks: Texans 2, Jaguars 2
• Turnovers: Texans 3, Jaguars 1
• Penalties: Texans 7/66, Jaguars 9/70
• Time of Possession: Texans 28:42, Jaguars 31:12

This is one of those games where the numbers absolutely tell the whole difference in the game. The Texans turned it over three times in the Jaguars territory in the fourth quarter. Take those turnovers away (even just one of them) the game turns out differently. Other than the turnovers these two teams played an even football game. Of course, we can and should get to more in the good, bad, and ugly.

The Good​

Okay, let’s dispense with the pleasantries. Yes, the defense technically gave up the final touchdown, but that was a strategic move to get the ball back. If the flow of the game is any indication, it probably would have turned out to be a field goal and if the Jaguars were playing the percentages it should have been a field goal. Yes, you can absolutely say that the defense gave up the winning points in the end, but that would ignore everything that went on in the football game.

Three weeks in a row the defense played good enough to win the game. The Texans took the number one rushing offense in football and held them under 100 yards. Lawrence was 20 of 40 in a game that will not be included on his tape when he wants a new contract. Identities are both positive and negative. The Texans have an identity of a hard hitting team that makes life difficult for quarterbacks. We cannot ignore the positive even though there is plenty of negative to focus on. This defense has not quite produced at top five overall levels, but they have played good enough to win three football games. They’ve won none of them.

The Bad​

Okay, how does one differentiate the bad from the ugly on the offensive side of the ball? For me, the bad includes issues that are unique to that game. The ugly includes issues that we are systemic throughout the season. Sunday’s transient issue was the turnovers. Nico Collins doesn’t normally fumble the football. C.J. Stroud is not a prolific thrower of interceptions. The turnovers were unique to this game.

The Jaguars tried to give you the football game. They managed to win the game anyway because the Texans couldn’t finish the few drives they did have. As per usual, each individual turnover was its own situation. One involved a tipped ball at the line of scrimmage. One involved a fumble by a receiver trying to gain more yards. A third involved a poorly designed play that allowed a defensive back to guard two receivers in the same space. Did they run the wrong route? Was it a bad play design? I’m sure all we will be told is that we are close to breaking things open and we need to exercise some patience.

The Ugly​

Psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross originally developed the stages of grief. Today I am introducing the stages of suck. The first stage in the stages of suck is the side eye stage. Essentially, no one is panicking. No one is calling for anyone’s head. We simply express concern over what we are watching. That pretty well encapsulates the first two weeks of the season. Everyone was willing to be patient, but we wanted to see something different. We were told we were close, so we bit our tongue and held on for another week.

The second stage in the stages of suck is the questioning stage. The time for side eye is gone. Now, we are simply asking questions. Mind you, these are questions that have never come up before. For now, there is one main question: was Nick Caley the right guy for the offensive coordinator position? Obviously, there is time to answer this question in the affirmative or the negative. However, the longer it festers the more questions that come up. The next question will be whether Stroud is the quarterback of the future. Obviously, that question can also be answered in the affirmative or the negative. If this stage festers longer then there are questions about DeMeco Ryans and Nick Caserio.

The questioning stage is the longest stage. It could take the balance of the season to get through it. Sustained performance on one end or the other will move you out of that stage. On the positive end, you can no longer suck and get out of the stages of suck altogether. On the negative end, if you continue in the questioning stage and don’t get positive answers to your questions then you enter the blaming stage. We saw this last year when Bobby Slowik got canned. The blame centered on him.

Once fans and pundits get to the blame stage then there are no recourses other than jettisoning the person or persons blamed. Therefore, the earlier a team makes a move the better it is for them in the short-term. Fire Slowik and you get a reprieve. The new guy gets time to work. Of course, the downside is that if he also fails then that blame thing spreads. Who’s responsible for hiring the scapegoat? Were they given the tools to succeed? So, there is still some questioning involved.

The final stage is the pitchfork stage. If the powers that be don’t give up the scapegoats then that blame spreads. By then it is too late. It is impossible for everyone to get out alive. This is when organizations clean house. We might be seeing this in Miami before the end of the season. When new regimes fail then we cycle back to this stage. As you might imagine, the more often the pitchforks come out the quicker fans are to getting to the pitchfork phase. This is why some organizations seem to be like an Etch a Sketch that gets erased every few seasons.

We are clearly at the questioning stage. So we will ask some questions as this season continues. The questions right now center on Caley, but they will quickly expand to Stroud if these performances continue. Depending on the fan or analyst, teams and players have varying amounts of time to satisfy those questions. It also depends on where the bar is set. Caley and Stroud are on notice. We are going to ask those questions. It is up to them to answer them.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/the-v...is-statistics-jacksonville-jaguars-week-3-nfl

 

[Houston Texans]

Houston Texans Opening Odds vs. Tennessee Titans

This post is sponsored by FanDuel.

It doesn’t get much worse than 0-3, especially considering the hype the Houston Texans built entering this NFL season. Their demoralizing start had even more air let out its tires when they lost to the Jacksonville Jaguars last Sunday, and the Texans will have to prevent it from becoming an apocalyptic start when they host the Tennessee Titans in week four of the 2025 NFL season.

Fanduel has already got the opening odds whipped up, and they appear to still have hope for Houston, favoring them by 7.5 points despite the painful start to the season:

If you’d like to try your hand, just follow this link to start betting on the variety of options FanDuel has available. FanDuel gives you the choice to make traditional bets as well as Quick Bets, wagers that rely less on the outcome of the game and more on who will score the first touchdown, first field goal, etc.

This -7.5 spread means the Texans will cover the spread as long as they win by 8 points or more, while the Titans will cover the spread as long as they either lose by less than 8 points or win outright. Tennessee isn’t any more inspiring than their 0-3 AFC South brother (once removed), but they already appear to be utilizing the extra firepower their first overall pick, QB Cam Ward, has provided them. Being a -7.5 favorite isn’t bestowing a large amount of confidence at Houston’s feet, either, so it looks like FanDuel expects a Texans win but not one to write home about, which is more of an indictment on the Texans than it is praise of the Titans.

Scoring in general for this game seems like it may come at a premium, as well. An over/under of 38.5 (which is what FanDuel expects to be the combined score of the game) would mean they don’t expect either team to score more than 19 points. That sounds doable until you realize that Houston needed nearly all 60 minutes and a short field in their week two matchup to earn just two touchdowns. The points have been earned the hard way for both teams in this matchup, so FanDuel is wise to have kept the O/U low.

Only six teams have made the playoffs after starting 0-3. The 2018 Texans were one of them.

C.J. Stroud still has confidence in his guys:

“Sucks when you start 0-3 but it can be flipped.” pic.twitter.com/LjbYYWgMFr

— Chancellor Johnson (@ChancellorTV) September 21, 2025

Still, there’s no doubt the sports book artisans expect Houston to shirk their problems and beat this Titans team. If I had been somehow hidden from Sunday’s atrocity in Jacksonville, I’d be inclined to agree with them. But…after being exposed to that mess of a game, I don’t think Houston is capable of getting anything larger than a 3-point lead on their opponent. Houston has only started 0-3 five times before (2020, 2018, 2008, 2006, 2005) and has only been 0-4 three times before (2020, 2008, 2005). Out of all of these years, the Texans only made the playoffs in 2018, and that defining mid-season rebound was such an anomaly that it convinced Texans ownership to offer the keys of the franchise to Bill O’Brien. I don’t expect ownership to be making that kind of mistake again, so the pressure will be on DeMeco Ryans and Co. to get the Houston Texans into the winner’s circle before it’s too late, and most importantly, cover the spread!

GO TEXANS!!!

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/general/71328/houston-texans-opening-odds-vs-tennessee-titans

 

[Houston Texans]

BREAKING NEWS: Texans Release S C.J. Gardner-Johnson

A shocking development struck Houston airwaves today, as Aaron Wilson of KPRC2 reported that the Houston Texans released starting safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson:

#Texans released C.J. Gardner-Johnson after friction behind the scenes with him complaining about his role, wanting to blitz more, per league sources, and even communicating that he wanted to be traded. It didn't work out for him here. M.J. Stewart next man up expected @KPRC2 https://t.co/2BNY7k5xsH

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) September 23, 2025

Among the issues #Texans experienced behind the scenes with C.J. Gardner-Johnson, per sources, he was critical of teammates in the secondary and didn't like his role. It was a locker room issue and ultimately this just wasn't a good fit for the team and for a talented… https://t.co/tHhsv9Ur7v

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) September 23, 2025

According to Wilson, Gardner-Johnson had experienced friction in the Texans’ facility after, “….complaining about his role, wanting to blitz more, per league sources, and even communicating that he wanted to be traded.” Gardner-Johnson was in his first year with the Texans after being traded from the Philadelphia Eagles along with a 2026 sixth-round pick to Houston for former Texans guard Kenyon Green and a 2025 fifth-round pick in March.

Gardner-Johnson was expected to be one of Houston’s several playmaking stars in the defensive backfield after a highlight-filled season with the Super Bowl champion Eagles in 2024. He had only played three regular season games for the Texans before his release, and now he is expected to be replaced by M.J. Stewart in the starting lineup. In his brief career with the Texans, C.J. Gardner-Johnson tallied:

• 15 tackles
• 1 QB hit
• 6 receptions on 8 targets for 86 yards
• 63.4 PFF grade

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This news arrives just a day after the announcement that the NFL had removed Texans safety Jimmie Ward from the Commissioners’s exempt list after a grand jury in Texas decided not to indict him last week on charges of felony family assault brought forward by the mother of his child. Ward remains on the Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, but can be removed by next week.

NFL removed Texans safety Jimmie Ward from the Commissioner Exempt List today. Ward has missed three games since being placed on the list on August 26 following a legal incident in June. In accordance with the Personal Conduct Policy, that review will remain ongoing and is not…

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 22, 2025

We will update this post with more information as it becomes available, but as of right now, this is one of the most surprising personnel moves the Houston Texans have made in years.

What do you think of the move? Was C.J. Gardner-Johnson going to take the Texans to the Super Bowl, or are we better off without him? Let us know down in the comments below!

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/houst...ing-news-texans-release-s-c-j-gardner-johnson

 

[Houston Texans]

Eye of the Cyclones: Higgins and Noel Week 3 Report

Welcome to week 3 of the Cyclone tracker!

This is where we follow our resident weather themed duo in rookie receivers Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, both out of Iowa State (hence, the “Cyclone” twins).

As always, there will be analysis, projections, commentary, and relevant updates that happen in real time.

Week 3 Cyclones Tracker:

————————————-

Name: Jayden Higgins

Position: WR

Projected week 3 storm path: 3.7 targets, 2.3 receptions, 29.3 yards, 0.2 TD’s, 6.2 fantasy pts

Actual week 3 path: 1 target, 1 reception, 5 yards, 0 TD’s, 0.5 fantasy pts

Total stats through week 3: 5 targets, 4 receptions, 65 yards (16.3 avg), 0 TDs

Assessment: Through the first three weeks, Higgins has amassed “gargantuan” stats of: 5 targets, 4 receptions, 65 yards, 0 TD’s, an average of 16.3 yards/catch, and his longest haul being 28 yards.

This is getting embarrassing to type, but this offense continues not to facilitate Jayden’s growth and potential impact for the team. Him having no touchdowns through three weeks isn’t even the worst part.

The problem is when you struggle to/don’t prioritize a guy with physical traits of: being 6’4”, possessing a 39” vertical, having an 80” wing span, and running a 4.4 40 time.

He’s the spitting image of Nico Collins! Yet, Nick Caley and this offensive unit have not been able to consistently and competently integrate him into an anemic passing attack that ranks bottom 10 in receptions (57 – 25th), yards (599 – 24th), and touchdowns (2 – 29th).

For him to have only five targets on 46 total passing snaps is beyond me. He theoretically has the physical range to fit a myriad of offensive ideologies.

Want a possession receiver? You got it. Looking to take a deep shot on a double move against an over aggressive cornerback? Let’s do it, coach. Need to throw a fade route on a clutch red zone series? Put it in the air and it’s his.

Any of those scenarios would be better than what we’ve witnessed. It’s border line coaching malpractice at this point.

That’s something that Caley and C.J. Stroud badly need to adjust if they want to give themselves even the slightest chance of looking just competitive at this point.

Week 4 Projections: 3.4 targets, 2.2 receptions, 27.1 yards, 0.1 TD’s, 5.8 fantasy pts

——————————-

Name: Jaylin Noel

Position: WR/PR & KR

Projected week 3 storm path: 2.9 targets, 2 receptions, 21.4 yards, 0.2 TD’s, 4.9 fantasy pts.

Actual week 3 path: 1 target, 1 receptions, 4 yards, 0 TD’s, 64 return yards, 1.4 fantasy pts

Total stats through week 3: 3 targets, 2 receptions, 11 yards (5.5 avg), 229 return yards, 0 TD’s

Assessment: As I mentioned in last week’s Cyclone report, it has truly been a quandary as to why Jaylin Noel can’t seem to find a rhythm in this new offense.

With the return of starting receiver Christian Kirk, it was only natural to assume that touches would become even more scarce for Noel.

However, that’s no excuse for the systemic failure that has prevented the diminutive dynamo from following in the footsteps of fellow receiver, Tank Dell. I keep saying it because it bears repeating: Tank Dell thrived alongside C.J. Stroud, Dalton Shultz, and Nico Collins. Why can’t Jaylin?

The groans about Nick Caley’s play calling are only going to grow louder by the snap if things don’t change soon. That includes a gross mismanagement/neglecting of explosive players like Noel who could help to transform this moribund experience that has been ‘25 Houston Texans passing game.

Week 4 Projections: 1.9 targets, 1.3 receptions, 13.2 yards, 0.1 TD’s

All stats and projections provided courtesy of ESPN and PFF.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/gener...aylin-noel-houston-texans-iowa-state-cyclones

 

[Houston Texans]

Houston Texans vs. Tennessee Titans Injury Report: Star Cornerback Misses Practice

The Houston Texans have dropped their first three games of the 2025 NFL season and will be looking to bounce back at home against the also-winless Tennessee Titans.

So far, the Texans have been in each game until the very end, mostly thanks to their defense, but there’s only so much the defense can do when the offense isn’t helping. Offensive coordinator Nick Caley has been taking a lot of heat for questionable play-calling and the overall look of the offense.

With that being said, there’s only so much Caley can do with the struggling offensive line assembled by General Manager Nick Caserio. Quarterback C.J. Stroud hasn’t looked like his former self, and a lot of that comes down to constant pressure. He’s uncomfortable in the pocket, which explains the passes he is now missing, that would normally be automatic.

The rushing attack hasn’t helped either. Nick Chubb is still a solid player, but there’s nowhere for him to run behind the offensive line. It might make sense to get rookie Woody Marks more involved, given his ability to break tackles and make plays in space.

There’s still time to turn things around, but the offense needs to get it together fast if the Texans want to salvage their season.

Here’s a look at Wednesday’s injury report:

LIMITED PARTICIPATION​

-WR Nico Collins (Knee)

-C Jake Andrews (Ankle)

DID NOT PARTICIPATE​

-CB Derek Stingley Jr. (Oblique)

-FB Jakob Johnson (Hamstring)

-OT Tytus Howard (Illness)

You may take a quick look at this list and be worried, and there may be some concern, but most are expected to play.

Houston needs this win if they want to turn things around before it is too late.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/houst...injury-report-star-cornerback-misses-practice

 

[Houston Texans]

Texans Reacts Survey Week 4

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Texans fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Heading into Week 4, we want to know how you’re feeling after watching the team so far this year. Every week of the season we will ask fans if they are confident the team is headed in the right direction and more of the most pressing questions facing the coming game. Let us know what you think!

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/general/71396/texans-reacts-survey-week-4

 

[Houston Texans]

Thursday Night Football Open Thread – Seattle Seahawks at Arizona Cardinals

American Hero Case Keenum. | Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images

Hello, good evening and welcome to week four. We move from an AFC East matchup last week to an NFC West showdown this week. Unlike last week’s game, this one might even prove a bit entertaining, as they’re both 2-1 teams. But we won’t know that for sure until kickoff. Isn’t it funny how that works?

Here’s what you need to know to watch tonight’s game:

Who: Seattle Seahawks (2-1) at Arizona Cardinals (2-1)

What: Thursday Night Football

Where: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ

When: Thursday, September 25, 7:15 p.m. CDT

Why: Because the NFL keeps scheduling them.

How: Amazon Prime Video*, NFL+* (*subscriptions required)

Enjoy the game, y’all.

Go, Texans!

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/gener...-thread-seattle-seahawks-at-arizona-cardinals

 

[Houston Texans]

BESFs at Texans: How to watch, TV schedule, and more

Folks, it’s hate week. You know why it’s hate week, we know why it’s hate week, let’s just leave it at that.

But suppose you wanted to watch the first hate week game of the season? Where could you possibly go to find out where the game will be playing?

We can help with that; thanks to 506 Sports for their big board, here is where you can expect to watch the Texans game in your part of the world:

View Link

CBS Early Games

Red: Washington Commanders at Atlanta Falcons (Announcers: Ian Eagle, J.J. Watt; Referee: Scott Novak)
Blue: Los Angeles Chargers at New York Giants (Announcers: Kevin Harlan, Trent Green; Referee: Shawn Hochuli)
Green: New Orleans Saints at Buffalo Bills (Announcers: Andrew Catalon, Charles Davis, Jason McCourty; Referee: Land Clark)
Yellow: Tennessee BESFs at Houston Texans (Announcers: Beth Mowins, Ross Tucker; Referee: Brad Rogers)

Here’s what you need to know to watch the game today:

Who: Tennessee BESFs at Houston Texans

Where: NRG Stadium, Houston, TX

When: Sunday, September 27, 12:00 pm CST

Why: Because we can’t lose to these guys. Right?

TV: CBS (Beth Mowins, Ross Tucker)

Radio: KILT Sports Radio 610 AM

Streaming: Hulu + Live TV*, NFL+*, Paramount+*, YouTubeTV* (via Sunday Ticket) (*subscriptions required)

Current Game Odds: ​

Point Spread:​

Tennessee BESFs (+7.5) (opened at +7.5)
Houston Texans (-7.5) (opened at -7.5)

Over/Under: 38.5 (opened at 38.5)​

Money Line Odds:​

Tennessee BESFs (+270) (opened at +300)
Houston Texans (-335) (opened at -375)
(per FanDuel Sportsbook)

Go Texans!

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/houst...ans-nfl-week-4-how-to-watch-channel-streaming

 

[Houston Texans]

Value of Things: Knives out edition

The Houston Texans have been here before. To be perfectly fair, they have been here three other times before in their history. When things start to go sideways as they have this season there are stages that the team goes through. Obviously, these are similar to the stages of suck I introduced earlier this week. Those stages are more for fans and analysts on the outside. Teams like the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers seem to be immune to sucking, but almost every other organization has gone through this. Before we look at the current situation we should review the history.

2005​

The Texans were not expected to do much as they were an expansion team, but the momentum they had built in their first three seasons had stalled. So, Bob McNair brought in Dan Reeves to evaluate the entire organization. The question is always the same: when things go sideways is it more about the Jimmy and Joe’s or about the Xs and Os? If we want to put a prettier bow on it we could ask whether the coaches are failing to develop the players or use them in ways that would insure their success or if the front office is just giving them bad players?

Reeves ultimately pointed the finger at both Dom Capers and Charlie Casserly. So, both got the boot and the organization started over with Gary Kubiak and Rick Smith. Both had their issues and the decision to move on from both of them was probably a good one. Looking back, I don’t think you’d ever expect things to go smoothly out of the gate.

2013​

This season is probably the most directly comparable to the current season. The Texans were coming off of back to back division titles and were expected to win again. Matt Schaub turned into a pick six machine and the rest is history. This was also a comparable situation in that Smith and Kubiak were aligned until they weren’t. That familiar story came down again and the organization sided with Smith. This decision was not as clear cut as both Smith and Kubiak had their supporters and detractors. Plus, no Reeves was available to help out McNair.

2020​

We know this story and while there was no power struggle, it was yet another example of whether it was Bill O’Brien the coach or William O’Brien the general manager. The power struggle may very well have been between Jack Easterby and O’Brien and just saying that statement out loud confirms how dysfunctional the organization was at that point. I certainly think O’Brien deserved to go, but Easterby should have been show the door and the failure to do so probably set back the organization a season or two.

That brings us to the current day. There were reports that Ryans was yelling at his assistants on the sideline, but he tried to quelch those rumors by saying he was yelling at the officials instead. Maybe that is true. However, there have been whispers already that Ryans was not 100 percent on board with the Caley hire and that he may already be disenchanted with him. That’s how these things always start. It is always a whisper. It is always an unnamed source within the organization. No one will go on the record and the powers that be will make their denials.

However, this is where it comes to a head. Ryans cannot defend two consecutive failed offensive coordinators. The only way he can try to pull it off is by claiming that one of them was not his. Yet, Nick Caserio is an even more precarious position. Ryans is his third head coach. The first two were really a part of the same failed plan to bring in placeholders that could kick the can down the road. Both will have a hard time convincing ownership and the fanbase that they deserve a third bite at the apple.

The main question​

If the losses mount, there will be a reckoning. We asked a series of questions earlier on Wednesday, but it all stems from the same question: is it a coaching problem or a player personnel problem? Of course, the answer could also be both. So far, it looks like the answer could cut both ways. We see other teams with seemingly similar talent levels have more success. Yet, we also see roster construction issues that we have seen the last several seasons.

I will make the same plea that I have made numerous times. Cal and Hannah McNair need their own Dan Reeves. They need an uninterested third party that actually knows football that can sift through the BS and give them some answers. This is nothing against Nick or DeMeco. Neither is a bad guy and that makes this all the more hard. Both will plead their case and do so in convincing fashion. Those of us on the outside looking in will have our own opinions, but since none of us have been an NFL coach or executive we can only give an educated guess. Just expect more whispers to leak out as the season continues. Those whispers will get louder and more direct. It’s already started and it won’t stop by simply firing the offensive coordinator. It won’t stop until the Texans are back in the playoffs or one (or both) of them is shown the door.

Source: https://www.battleredblog.com/houst...xans-nfl-schedule-record-results-team-history