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Houston Texans, CJ Stroud, NFL, ESPN
November 14, 2024 By  Houston Texans

Texans Facing Big Question About Major Team Flaw Ahead of Week 11

As the Houston Texans prepare for Week 11 of the NFL season, a critical question looms regarding their persistent struggles in the second half of games. After suffering another disappointing performance, the team must address these flaws if they hope to turn their season around.

Houston is slowly making waves as the league moves through November. With a mix of emerging talent and increasing production, they’re becoming a team to watch. Quarterback C.J. Stroud has been impressive, showcasing his ability to lead the offense effectively. His growing rapport with receivers like Nico Collins is crucial for their success. Collins has emerged as a key target, contributing significantly to the passing game.

Houston Texans, CJ Stroud, NFL
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) gets ready to throw a pass during the first quarter, Thursday, October 31, 2024, in East Rutherford.

However, Houston’s offensive line has struggled at times, impacting both the passing and running games. Running back Dameon Pierce, who has shown flashes of brilliance, could benefit from improved protection. If the line can hold up, Pierce has the potential to be a consistent contributor to the team.

Another bright spot for the team is their relatively favorable schedule in the coming weeks. This could open up opportunities for both Stroud and Pierce to capitalize on matchups. Fantasy managers may want to keep an eye on Houston’s offense, especially as they fine-tune their strategies and build momentum.

ESPN’s NFL Analysis Reveals Big Question About Major Flaw Ahead of Week 11

Houston Texans, CJ Stroud
Aug 9, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) warms up with a basketball before a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

For the Texans to contend this season, they have to address a big flaw ahead of Week 11. DJ Bien-Aime detailed this flaw in an analysis for ESPN.

Can the Texans fix their second-half lulls? Coming into “Sunday Night Football,” the Texans’ offense averaged 9.1 points in the second half, but this was a new low — scoring a season-worst zero points against the Lions. The Texans’ inability to score fueled the Lions’ comeback even though the defense forced five interceptions.

The Texans’ second-half possessions: interception, punt, interception, punt, punt, punt and missed field goal. That’s a recipe for a loss. Instead of being 7-4 with a win over one of the best teams in the NFC, they’re losers in three of their past four games.

In Week 10, Houston faced a significant challenge, suffering a season-low score of zero points in the second half against the Detroit Lions. This marked a troubling trend, as their offense averaged just 9.1 points in previous second halves. The team’s inability to maintain offensive momentum, coupled with five forced turnovers, highlighted their biggest flaw: a lack of adaptability under pressure.

Houston Texans, CJ Stroud
Sep 22, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) in action against the Minnesota Vikings during the game at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

To turn their season around, Houston must address these second-half struggles and find ways to capitalize on their defensive strengths. Consistent performance is crucial for their playoff aspirations.

Houston Texans, CJ Stroud, NFL
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) prepares to pass the ball in the second quarter, Thursday, October 31, 2024, in East Rutherford.

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About Angelo Guinhawa

Angelo Guinhawa is a veteran sports writer and editor who has been working in the industry for over 10 years now. He has worked for FOX Sports PH and several other reputable sports publications. His specialty is the NBA and the NFL, though he also covers the MLB, NHL and European top-flight football.

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