Texans Survive Raiders, But Offensive Concerns Loom Large Ahead of Chargers Clash
The Houston Texans walked away with a win over the struggling Las Vegas Raiders, but if you watched the game, you know it didn’t feel like much of a victory. This was a 10th win that came with more red flags than reassurance. Against a 2-12 Raiders squad that’s been limping through the season, Houston’s offense looked out of sync, the defense showed signs of wear, and the coaching staff left a lot to be desired.
Let’s be honest - this game was supposed to be a breather before a critical stretch against the Chargers and Colts. Instead, it turned into a nail-biter that exposed some of the Texans’ most glaring issues.
Offensive Stalls and Play-Calling Woes
The biggest target of frustration? Offensive coordinator Nick Caley. And it’s hard to argue with that sentiment.
Houston’s offense was flat for most of the afternoon. Maxx Crosby, as disruptive as ever, lived in the Texans’ backfield.
He wasn’t just winning one-on-ones - he was coming in untouched at times. That’s a scheme issue.
That’s a preparation issue. And that’s on Caley.
This wasn’t just a case of a bad day at the office - it was a failure to adjust. The Texans struggled to get receivers open, couldn’t sustain drives, and looked completely unprepared for a Raiders defense that, frankly, has been one of the league’s worst all season.
Houston managed just one offensive touchdown. One.
That kind of production won’t cut it in December, let alone in January if they make it that far.
There were moments where Caley tried to mix things up - a different look here, a wrinkle there - but too often, those ideas were abandoned after one attempt. It felt like the Texans were running a simplified playbook, unwilling or unable to adapt in-game.
And yes, C.J. Stroud had his struggles too.
His footwork, which had improved throughout the season, regressed under pressure. Off-platform throws, jump passes, inconsistent dropbacks - it was all back on display.
There were also moments where he had green grass in front of him and chose not to run. Whether that’s a coaching directive or hesitation on his part, it’s something that needs to be addressed.
Defensive Cracks Without Key Starters
Defensively, the Texans were missing key pieces up front - Azeez Al-Shaair, Tim Settle, and Mario Edwards were all sidelined - and it showed. The Raiders found success on the ground, and Houston’s run defense looked vulnerable, especially late in the game.
Al-Shaair’s absence was particularly noticeable. He’s the communicator, the on-field quarterback of the defense, and without him, the unit lacked cohesion.
The Texans gave up a long touchdown reception to a running back, and linebacker Henry To’oTo’o once again struggled in coverage. That’s now back-to-back weeks where Houston has been gashed by tight ends and backs in the passing game - first Trey McBride, now Brock Bowers.
It’s a trend that’s starting to become a real concern.
And while the defensive line is clearly depleted, there’s no excuse for letting a rookie like Ashton Jeanty - who’s still finding his footing in the NFL - rip off a run that looked like something out of a college highlight reel.
A Win, But Not the Kind You Celebrate
Despite all of that, the Texans did win. They found a way to close it out, thanks in part to some late-game composure, a clutch kick from Ka’imi Fairbairn, and a big-time play from Derek Stingley Jr.
But this wasn’t a win that builds momentum. It was a win that raises questions.
The Texans have been a Jekyll-and-Hyde team all season - flashes of brilliance one week, head-scratching inconsistency the next. And this game was a perfect encapsulation of that identity.
They beat the Cardinals handily just a few weeks ago. Then they turn around and barely scrape past a Raiders team that’s been circling the drain.
This isn’t about style points. It’s about whether this team is truly ready for the postseason.
Right now, the offense isn’t playing like it. And if the Texans roll into games against the Chargers and Colts with the same game plan, the same sluggish execution, and the same lack of urgency, they’re not just risking a loss - they’re risking a season that once looked so promising.
Looking Ahead
C.J. Stroud remains the future of this franchise.
That much hasn’t changed. But he needs support - from his offensive line, from his playmakers, and most importantly, from his coaching staff.
Caley’s first season as a play-caller has been a roller coaster, and while it’s unlikely he’s dismissed mid-season, his seat is undeniably warm.
The Texans have a chance to right the ship. They’re 10-5, still in the thick of the playoff race, and have shown they can hang with just about anyone when they’re locked in.
But the margin for error is gone. The Chargers and Colts won’t be as forgiving as the Raiders were.
Houston escaped this one. But if they want to make noise in January, they need more than escape acts.
They need answers. And they need them fast.