It’s safe to say the Houston Texans aren’t winning any beauty contests when it comes to playoff performances. A former NFL coach wasn’t shy about his thoughts, slamming the team as the “worst division champion in this league.” Harsh words? Maybe, but he’s convinced they’ll be one and done in the postseason.
Critics are already placing bets on their early exit, while the Texans fans hold on to hope, clinging to every glimmer of optimism. It’s a clash of expectations, triumph or disaster, and everyone’s waiting for the final play to decide which side wins.
Rex Ryan Slams Texans’ O-Line, Predicts ‘One and Done’ Playoff Fate
The Texans may be playoff-bound, but according to ex-NFL coach Rex Ryan, they’re literally hanging on by a thread.
Appearing on ESPN, Ryan pulled no punches. “Quite honestly, they look like the worst division champion. … They look like one-and-done,” he said.
His main concern? The Texans’ O-line, or rather, the lack of protection for rookie QB C.J. Stroud.
"They look like the worst division champion in this league."
Rex Ryan says the Texans look "like one-and-done" in the postseason 😳 pic.twitter.com/gEzBaQBkA0
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) December 22, 2024
Ryan emphasized the impact of poor protection: “It starts with protection, and this kid [Stroud] looks like a different quarterback completely. Why? He’s not getting protected.”
Stroud’s confidence in the pocket is shaky, and it shows in his inconsistent play. While Stroud has shown flashes of potential, Ryan believes he’s being exposed without solid protection.
With the Texans struggling to protect their QB, Ryan’s assessment hits hard. “If you can’t protect a quarterback better than this … it’s a bad look.”
Stroud’s development is crucial, but Ryan argues the Texans aren’t setting him up for success. As the team heads into the playoffs, the pressure is on to prove doubters wrong. Will they break Ryan’s “one and done” prediction, or is the coach’s critique spot on? Time will tell.
Texans’ Playoff Outlook in Jeopardy as Tank Dell Faces Serious Knee Injury
Tank Dell’s knee took a brutal hit, and now the Texans’ playoff run is feeling the pressure.
The speedy receiver was carted off to the hospital after a nasty collision with teammate Jared Wayne during a 30-yard touchdown catch in the Texans 27-19 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. The impact left Dell grabbing his knee in pain, and the medical team quickly took over.
Coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed Dell’s release from the hospital on Sunday, but the news wasn’t much easier to digest.
“Right now, we still will be evaluating to see where he is,” Ryans said, keeping things vague. “He’s still meeting with doctors to see what’s next for him. But it is a significant knee injury.”
There’s still no official word on whether Dell’s season is over, but for now, the Texans are holding their breath. Without Dell, the Texans will need to dig deep to maintain their playoff push. The loss stings not only because of the injury but also because the offense relies on his explosive plays.
Here’s hoping they can turn the page on this injury and keep their postseason dreams alive.
