The Houston Texans have made significant coaching changes by parting ways with offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, offensive line coach Chris Strausser, and assistant offensive line coach Cole Popovich as they seek to revitalize their offense. Following a mixed performance during the 2024 season, a year that saw the Texans emerge victorious in the AFC South with a record of 10-7, the team needs to reassess its offensive strategies going forward. Coach DeMeco Ryans has hinted at a broader reevaluation of the entire offensive staff as they work to lay a stronger foundation for the future.
Despite the team’s playoff appearance, the Texans’ offense exhibited various struggles that led to Slowik’s dismissal. Ranked 18th in scoring and 16th in total offense, the Texans’ performance on the field failed to meet the rising expectations set at the season’s onset. It was clear to both fans and analysts alike that improvement was necessary; not just in achieving wins, but in constructing a competitive and cohesive offense that can keep pace in a turbulent league.
One of the primary issues plaguing the Texans throughout the season was the inconsistency of their offensive line. Quarterback C.J. Stroud, at the helm of the offense, faced immense pressure, leading to a staggering total of 52 sacks—an alarmingly high figure that ranks as the second most in the league. This poorly functioning line hampered the growth of Stroud, who initially showed promise in his rookie year. With a staggering pressure rate of 38.6% combined with the time-to-pressure rate of just 2.59 seconds, it quickly became apparent that opposing defenses had a tactical advantage over an underperforming line.
The failure to effectively combat defensive twists and stunts exacerbated Stroud’s struggles, resulting in 52 unblocked pressures. Such scenarios not only hindered his performance statistics but also disrupted the overall rhythm of the Texans’ offense. Moreover, it put significant pressure on a rookie quarterback, learning to navigate the complexities of the NFL, which inevitably led to a decline in his production from Year 1 to Year 2.
The Texans’ offense demonstrated alarming inconsistency, particularly evident in their dismal showing during the second halves of games. Averaging a league-low 7.5 points after halftime signified deep-rooted issues that extended beyond player performance alone—it suggested a systemic failure to adjust tactics and keep pace with opponents. The team’s inability to score offensive touchdowns during a crucial stretch between Weeks 7 and 12 underscored a troubling inability to innovate or adapt during games.
While high expectations surged with the addition of Pro Bowl talents like running back Joe Mixon and wide receiver Stefon Diggs, injuries and lack of execution thwarted these aspirations. Diggs’ unfortunate ACL injury in Week 8 further complicated matters, leaving a gaping hole in the receiving corps that could not be easily filled. Despite Mixon nearing 1,018 rushing yards, his contributions alone were insufficient to overcome the challenges faced in crucial third down and red zone situations—areas where the Texans struggled significantly, ranking 17th and 28th, respectively.
With Slowik’s departure, the Texans find themselves at a crossroads—a pivotal moment that could redefine their offensive identity in the years to come. Coach Ryans previously expressed the need for improvement, addressing the challenges faced throughout the season. Rebuilding the offensive staff will be crucial as the Texans look to cultivate a functional, adaptive scheme that can foster immediate success and long-term growth.
Ultimately, the Texans can view this transitional period as an opportunity to move beyond the shadows of mediocrity. It’s time to leverage their existing talent and recruit a fresh coaching perspective to reinvigorate the offense, instill confidence in players like C.J. Stroud, and forge a formidable front line that can safeguard their future ambitions. Given the right strategic initiatives, the Texans are poised to emerge as a competitive force within the league once again.
Leave a Reply