Texans TE Owen Daniels scores a touchdown in the third quarter of Sunday's 38-14 win over the Titans. (US Presswire) |
The Texans were not spectacular offensively, but the defense made more than enough plays to beat the Titans 38-14 on Sunday. Houston (4-0) has yet to be tested late in games as the Texans have taken a double-digit lead into the fourth quarter in each of their four contests. That figures to change in the next few weeks. After a trip to take on the Jets on Monday Night Football next week, the Texans host the Packers and the Ravens.
Offense: B
The offense did what it needed to do, and that was to not turn the ball over. Houston only had 299 yards of total offense, but QB Matt Schaub was efficient, completing 20 of 28 passes for 202 yards and two touchdowns. TE Owen Daniels played well with six catches for 72 yards and a touchdown. RB Arian Foster had 86 yards and a touchdown, but he did that on 24 carries. Overall, the offense averaged just 3.1 yards per rush.
Previous game's grade: B+
Defense: A-
The Texans forced three Titans turnovers in the second half. S Danieal Manning returned an interception for a touchdown in the third quarter that gave Houston control of the game. CB Kareem Jackson played well and capped his day off with an interception returned for a touchdown as well. DE J.J. Watt continued his impressive play with two sacks and a fumble recovery. The rush defense left a little to be desired, allowing the Titans to run for 158 yards on 29 carries.
Previous game's grade: B+
Special teams: B
The kicking game was solid once again. K Shayne Graham hit a 33-yard field goal and is now 7 for 8. P Donnie Jones averaged 43.2 yards per punt and had four of his six punts go inside Tennessee’s 20-yard line. WR Trindon Holliday didn’t make any big mistakes in the return game, but he didn’t make any big plays either.
Previous game's grade: B-
Coaching: A
Coach Gary Kubiak talked postgame about how sharp Houston was in Friday's practice. The preparation showed as the Texans jumped out to a quick 14-0 lead. Houston is off to its first 4-0 start in franchise history, and the Texans are one of the best teams in football. The coaching staff has clearly done its job over the first quarter of the season.
Previous game's grade: A
Follow Texans blogger Sean Bielawski on Twitter, @CBSTexans.