Houston Texans Week 8 Grades vs Los Angeles Rams
By Mitch Hill
DEFENSE (D)
The defense for the Houston Texans already had quite the tall task in containing this Rams potent offense. However, when the defense allows over 450 yards of offense against them, it is hard to find positives in the game.
The Texans were able to force one sack on the Rams for a loss of eight yards. Throughout the game, the difference seemed to be the fact that Defensive Coordinator Lovie Smith and the defensive unit were unable or unwilling to make adjustments to their structure.
The secondary was absolute swiss cheese in coverage as Matthew Stafford was able to throw for 305 passing yards on the day. This Houston Texans defense is and will be a constant revolving door of players on the field with each passing play. It is up to the coaches and management to help develop these players and become much more competitive each week.
SPECIAL TEAMS (C)
Another average day out of the special teams unit for the Houston Texans on Sunday. Kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn missed his lone field goal attempt from 45 yards heading into halftime. The positive for him is that he went two for two in his extra-point attempts.
Texans DB Tremon Smith had a monster kick return for 44 yards. Look for Smith to serve as the returner for the foreseeable future this season. Any positive on special teams would be welcomed, as they were just abysmal with Pro Bowl Returner Andre Roberts earlier this year.
The Texans special teams capitalized on their single kick return this game. If they can find consistency in the other areas the Houston Texans may be able to use the special teams to win some games this season.