Falcons Have Just Enough for Error-Ridden Houston Texans

The Falcons and the Texans did a great job beating the Texans

The Houston Texans are now 2-3 after losing to the Atlanta Falcons 21-19.

Here are 11 observations from the loss in Atlanta.

1. This was the worst offensive performance to date for the Texans. Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik continued to run the football despite the lack of success the Texans were having on the ground. There was no significant push against a Falcons team that had not been impressive in stopping the run. It felt like the Texans were running into a wall.

2. Perhaps the most egregious trust in the rushing attack was in the second half. The Texans forced a fumble and took over deep in Atlanta territory. The Texans ran the ball for six yards in two plays, threw an incompletion, and then kicked their fourth field goal of the day. Quick-change moments usually have more offensive juice to them than that.

3. The offense put the defense in a precarious position in the second half. The Texans had three straight drives of three plays and a kick. Atlanta was physical on their drives and looked to really wear the Texans down. The defensive line was frequently tested and the quick possessions on offense exasperated that. The Falcons had drives of five minutes, almost seven minutes, and over four minutes where they were physical with the Texans. It wore down Houston.

4. Desmond Ridder should never have a game like that against your defense. Ridder was close to being benched heading into this week and he looked great against a defense that was awesome a week ago. He helped the Texans out a few times, but ultimately just hit a bunch of open receivers and played a solid game.