Morning Huddle–Texans drop second straight
By Josh McSwain
It was a rough appearance in prime time for the Houston Texans as they fell to the New England Patriots 27-6. But this week will precede their most important game this season in Indianapolis on Sunday. Here are your daily stories for Monday:
Hoyer evaluated for concussion by Kristie Rieken, San Francisco Chronicle
"Hoyer was sacked five times and left the game to be evaluated for a concussion with about 9 minutes remaining. The quarterback already missed a game this season after getting a concussion on Nov. 16.Coach Bill O’Brien said he didn’t have more details on Hoyer’s injury, but that it looked like he had a concussion. If he can’t go, the Texans will look to T.J. Yates, who started the last time Hoyer was out and led them to a win."
Houston should kick tires on DeMarco Murray by Charles Montgomery, NFL Spin Zone
"DeMarco Murray is a disgruntled feature back not far removed from an MVP-like 2014 season. The former Dallas Cowboy and possible ex Eagle is an intriguing prospect for a team that scores a firm C- in the quarterback category. When Murray was clicking, Tony Romo looked as if he could do no wrong. If seeing Alfred Blue run into the back of Texan lineman with regularity makes you sick, then Demarco Murray has the prescription."
Jadeveon Clowney continues to surge by Tania Ganguli, ESPN
"UPJadeveon Clowney: Clowney grew up watching Patriots quarterback Tom Brady and went around all week telling people he’d get to play against Brady this weekend. But there was no awestruck lull for Clowney. He sacked Brady twice Sunday night for his first career multisack game.Jonathan Grimes: The Texans running back was productive the few times Houston went to him. He had 53 yards on seven carries for an average of 7.6 yards per carry."
Pats Prevail but bigger game awaits by Marc Vandermeer, Houstontexans.com
"As Tom Brady took a knee and killed the clock in the Texans’ loss to New England the focus quickly shifted to the game of the year – The Colts in Indianapolis.After all, win or lose against the Patriots, Houston was going to need to beat Indy for its best possible path into the post season.But that doesn’t take the hurt out of a 27-6 loss in a game for which the Texans had high hopes."