Nick Caserio and his front office had a busy off-season. They worked diligently to create a new environment for their incoming Head Coach. An impressive stint with the San Francisco 49ers helped DeMeco Ryans earn his first Head Coaching gig. The Houston Texans agreed to a five-year deal with their former inside linebacker. His leadership skills and competitive drive are helping the Texans earn respect throughout the NFL.
What coaching grade does DeMeco Ryans deserve halfway through the season?
Houston Texans DeMeco Ryans Mid-Season Evaluations:
Offense: C -
Bobby Slowik has a diverse group of weapons. They are hungry for success and determined to prove doubters wrong. An impressive start to the new campaign made rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud the center of attention. He's adjusted well to the professional gridiron and plays a vital role in Slowik's scheme. This season, Stroud ranks 13th in passing yards (1,800) and leads rookie quarterbacks in yards per completion (7.6) and passing touchdowns (9). He's surpassed expectations heading into Week 9 but still has room for development. Consistent performances from Houston's rookie is elevating the team. They rank 12th in offensive grading (72.8) - twenty spots higher than last season (32nd).
Struggles on the ground are hindering production this season. Bobby Slowik's offense is one-dimensional, and defenses are beginning to catch on. In Week 8, the Carolina Panthers limited Houston to one touchdown. Dameon Pierce and Devon Singletary tried their best to jumpstart the rushing game. They combined for 22 carries but only produced 76 yards.
Finding wiggle room at the line of scrimmage is an ongoing issue. Houston ranks 23rd in run offense (67.8) and 17th in run blocking (62.9). An unbalanced mixture of passing and running plays could hurt Houston later. DeMeco Ryans and his staff must find ways to balance the offense for a chance to clinch a postseason berth.
Houston Texans DeMeco Ryans Mid-Season Evaluations:
Defense: C -
Protecting the endzone is a crucial part of professional football. Stout defensive schemes helped Ryans become Houston's newest head coach. He believes in a physical brand of football. One that includes eliminating rushing lanes and pressuring the quarterback. Matt Burke's group is still working on adjusting to fulfill new standards.
Will Anderson Jr. (79.7) and Henry To'oTo'o (44.9) were great additions to the 2023 NFL Draft. They've worked hard to earn a role within a developing defensive unit. Wins against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New Orleans Saints showed glimpses of how special Burke's group can become. The Texans have enough talent to sustain the long haul of the season. They must find ways to improve to secure an extended season.
Determination from younger players is helpful but does not equate to immediate results. DeMeco Ryans' unit is 4-3 heading into the middle of the season. Losses to the Panthers, Colts, and Ravens exposed weaknesses in Burke's starting group. Defeating the run was a common issue in these exhibitions. This season, Houston ranks 28th in run defense (54.7) and 26th in pass rush (66.8). They've earned the nineteenth-highest defensive grade (69.4). They excel in pass coverage (6th) but have other areas to improve before the season intensifies.
Houston Texans DeMeco Ryans Mid-Season Evaluations:
Team Morale: B -
Wins against noteworthy opponents are helping Houston establish a culture. It's been a long time since fans took pride in representing the home team. Wearing a Texans jersey was once frowned upon. Now, fans can support their favorite franchises in public. C.J. Stroud's presence has played a vital role in DeMeco Ryans' morality cleanse. He's volunteered himself for leadership roles within the locker room and is not afraid to speak his mind. His words encourage others around him to step up to the challenge.
An even-keeled demeanor is taking the Texans to newer heights. C.J. Stroud is a leader on and off the field and is determined to be a guiding light for his organization. His demeanor makes it easy for teammates and coaches to buy into Houston's primary objective - win more games. DeMeco Ryans' coaching style blends perfectly with the skillset of his young quarterback. The first-year Head Coach is aware that his first round pick needs time to develop. Reassurance and tough love help younger players become confident on the professional level. Ryans' understands this well and is devoted to creating a positive environment for his team.
Wins are an easy way to keep positive morale throughout the season. DeMeco Ryans and his team experienced a fair share of winning and losing this season. Guidance from a devoted coaching staff will guide the Texans to the playoffs. Ryans is doing a great job halfway through the season. He deserves a C for the Texans' performance thus far this season.
All statistics courtesy of pff.com