Why the 0-3 Texans Are Determined to Win More Than Just Close Games
Houston Texans Face Challenges in Search of First Win
Struggles Continue for the Football Team in a Tough Season Start
HOUSTON — C.J. Stroud, the determined quarterback for the winless Houston Texans, spoke candidly following their Week 3 defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars, emphasizing that simply being close to victory isn’t good enough. “We’re really close. That’s the problem,” Stroud commented. “We keep highlighting our proximity to wins, but it’s time to address the problems and maintain honesty with one another.”
The Texans dropped to a 0-3 record after a 17-10 loss, in which their offense consistently faltered and their defense allowed another crucial game-winning drive. The team’s performance underscored recurring issues: failure to exceed 300 total yards, converting only 4 of 15 third downs, and suffering three turnovers.
Opportunity Missed in the Final Minutes
Despite their struggles, the Texans still had a chance. A crucial moment occurred when Stroud faced a third-and-1 situation from the Jaguars’ 28-yard line with just 27 seconds remaining. Unfortunately, Jaguars defensive end Josh Hines-Allen disrupted Stroud’s pass, leading to an interception by Jaguars cornerback Antonio Johnson.
Stroud acknowledged that consistent focus on execution is critical. “Effort and physicality are there; now, it’s about execution,” he stated.
Disappointing Start for Head Coach DeMeco Ryans
Under Coach DeMeco Ryans, the Texans had previously excelled in close games, holding a 14-8 record in one-score games before this season. However, they’ve now slipped to 0-3 in 2025, all decided by narrow margins. Ryans expressed the team’s desire for more than just near-victories: “We’re not here to be close. We’re here to win.”
Costly Errors Create Challenges
| Week | Opponent | Key Mistake |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Los Angeles Rams | Dare Ogunbowale’s fumble |
| 2 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Missed tackle allowing a key first down |
| 3 | Jacksonville Jaguars | Interception during crucial drive |
These mistakes have consistently widened the margin for error, preventing the Texans from capitalizing on potential victories.
Defensive Strengths vs. Offensive Woes
While the Texans’ defense, allowing only 17 points per game, has kept them competitive, the offense’s struggles remain a barrier. Despite having a low scoring average—12.7 points per game—the defense’s resilience has provided opportunities to win. However, as legendary coach Bill Parcells noted, “you are what your record says you are.”
Outlook for the Season
The statistical challenges mounted against the Texans are significant. ESPN’s Football Power Index indicates a limited 14% chance of playoff contention, which could drop to 6.9% with a loss to the Tennessee Titans (0-3) this Sunday.
Enduring the ups and downs, team veterans like defensive end Will Anderson Jr. are maintaining hope. “I’ve been here for three years,” Anderson reflected. “We’ve seen both highs and lows. There’s potential for improvement as long as we stick together and keep refining our fundamentals.”
