Houston Texans Week 11 grades in win over Tennessee Titans

DEFENSE (A)

There was no bigger impact a group of players made for the Texans win than the defensive unit. They were absolute ball hawks around the field and causing chaos for the Titans for the majority of the contest.

In total, the defense forced five turnovers (four interceptions, one fumble recovery) against the Titans and their dominant offensive attack. Texans free safety Desmond King led the way with two interceptions against Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill. The play of the day was when linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill had an 82-yard interception return late in the first quarter.

The Houston Texans defense recorded two sacks on the day. The impact they made on the field ultimately is what decided the game in favor of the Texans. Defensive Coordinator Lovie Smith has the defense forcing opponents to make mistakes and the offense has been able to capitalize on it.

These players are playing with pride and are showing that they are the strength of this team. If this defense continues to produce turnovers at this incredible rate, the Texans will be in a lot of close games for the remainder of the season.

SPECIAL TEAMS (B)

The special teams unit for the Texans had a direct impact on the outcome of the game. Kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn went 3-for-3 on his field goals at 43, 24, and 37 yards. Unfortunately, he went 1-for-2 in his extra point attempts in the game.

Punter Cameron Johnston performed very well with his punt attempts. He was able to make the field position an impact in Sunday’s contest.

The Texans still need some work on their kick and punt return coverage as they allowed nearly an average of 15 yards per return against Titans. If the Texans elect to punt the ball, the benefit to doing that is the fact they can pin the opponent towards their endzone. The coverage in the kicking and punting game needs to improve or better teams will take advantage of their mistakes.