Houston Texans Defense Dominates Pittsburgh Steelers In First Half
The Houston Texans' defense has shut down the Pittsburgh Steelers' offense, as they lead 16-0 at halftime at NRG Stadium Sunday.
Houston's defense allowed only four first downs and 53 yards on 24 plays in the opening 30 minutes, forcing two three-and-outs and a pick. The Texans held Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett to 9-for-14 for 35 yards and an interception, getting sacked twice for 12 yards.
Pickett's counterpart, Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, has outplayed him, completing 10-of-20 passes for 179 yards and one touchdown.
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) lines up under center against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first half at NRG Stadium Sunday.
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It took longer than expected, but the Texans opened the scoring on their first drive of the game but punched it in to take a 7-0 lead.
Stroud for what appeared to be a 5-yard touchdown, but was ruled down at the 1/2-yard line. After a false start, running back Dameon Pierce's 5-yard touchdown reception was nullified by Shaq Mason's second penalty in as many downs — this time an ineligible man downfield flag.
A defensive pass interference put the ball on the 2-yard line where Stroud connected with wide receiver Nico Collins for the game's opening touchdown.
Pittsburgh took a 46-yard shot down the field to Calvin Austin III, but Texans cornerback Steven Nelson picked it off and racked up a 33-yard return. Houston went 27 yards in nine plays but settled for a 36-yard field goal to extend its lead to 10-0.
Kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn drilled a 39-yard attempt as time expired in the first half, capping off a 3-for-3 frame.
Pierce has run 14 times for 61 yards, while Stroud has carried it three times for 15 yards.
The Texans will induct 10-year defensive end J.J. Watt into the franchise's Ring of Honor at halftime.
