NFL power rankings: Texans defense under fire
By Randy Gurzi
Once again the NFL media outlets have released their weekly power rankings for all 32 NFL teams. The Houston Texans have continually found themselves near the bottom of the rankings and another loss won’t change that. What has changed though, is people are starting to place a lot of the blame on their defense.
Pro Football Talk – 29th
"They benched Brian Hoyer too quickly. They stayed with Ryan Mallett too long. With Hoyer back, they have one last chance to turn it around."
ESPN – 30th
"Forget the quarterback situation. The Texans have forced a league-low two turnovers this season after forcing a league-high 34 last season. The defense needs to step up."
CBS Sports – 30th
"They have quarterback issues, but the poor defensive play is the major issue. That unit is struggling."
NFL.com – 31st
"Bill O’Brien isn’t toying with the media or fans in changing his mind on the starting quarterback — he’s toying with the football team, and not in a good way. As former head coach Brian Billick said to us on “NFL HQ” Friday morning, no coach wants to be where the Texans’ head man is right now. It’s just a horrible spot to be in. Of course, either QB could make it easier on him by simply playing better. The correct choice? Brian Hoyer."
Bleacher Report – 29th
"What’s Good?: The one constant on the Houston Texans this season has been wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. The former first-round pick accumulated at least 98 receiving yards in four of five games this season. During the last three contests, he amassed 427 receiving yards. Hopkins currently leads the NFL with 578 receiving yards.What’s Bad?: Where have you gone, J.J. Watt? No one will claim Watt is playing poorly over the last three weeks, but he simply hasn’t had the same type of impact everyone grew accustomed to throughout his career. During the past three contests, Watt managed only one sack, and he’s been neutralized by at least two poor offensive lines in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Indianapolis Colts.What’s Next?: After a seven-point loss to the Colts, 27-20, the Texans stay in the AFC South with a trip to Jacksonville to face the Jaguars. The Jaguars received something the Texans haven’t in recent weeks: good quarterback play.Last Week’s Ranking: 30"