The Houston Texans pushed hard against the Kansas City Chiefs in Saturday’s Divisional Round clash, but ultimately fell short in a 23-14 defeat.
While the Texans showed plenty of fight throughout the game, they struggled to capitalize on key moments when victory was within reach.
The loss stings even more considering it came with an unexpected NFL record.
According to ESPN’s post on X (formerly Twitter), the Texans carved out an unwanted piece of history – becoming the first team ever to lose a playoff game despite outgaining their opponent by 100 yards and committing zero turnovers.
“The Texans are the first team in NFL postseason history to outgain their opponent by 100 yards, have 0 turnovers, and lose. Prior to the Texans, teams were 49-0 in such games. Unreal.”
The Texans are the first team in NFL postseason history to outgain their opponent by 100 yards, have 0 turnovers, and lose.
Prior to the Texans, teams were 49-0 in such games. Unreal. 🤯 pic.twitter.com/NUI6eSEb7g
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) January 19, 2025
The Texans showed promise early on, responding to a 13-6 halftime deficit with a touchdown drive in the third quarter.
However, a missed extra point kept them trailing 13-12, and that would be their final offensive score of the day.
Their only additional points came from an intentional safety by Kansas City in the fourth quarter.
It was a tough end to what had already been a challenging season for Houston. Despite entering 2024 with high expectations, the team faced significant hurdles throughout the year.
C.J. Stroud put up solid numbers in defeat, completing 19 of 28 passes for 245 yards, while Joe Mixon contributed 88 yards on 18 carries and scored Houston’s only touchdown.
Injuries played a major role in derailing the Texans’ season, with star receivers Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell both suffering season-ending setbacks.
The defensive unit, particularly the secondary, also weathered its share of injury troubles.
As the team heads into the offseason, they’ll need to carefully evaluate this defeat and chart their course for a stronger campaign next year.
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