'Explosive!' Ryans Previews Texans' Challenge Against Jaguars' Ridley
The Houston Texans have beaten the Jacksonville Jaguars in their own building in five consecutive contests. Adding to that streak means limiting the connection between quarterback Trevor Lawrence and receiver Calvin Ridley.
Lawrence is teetering upon superstar status, and the Ridley acquisition may push him over the top. The two have developed an incredible chemistry early on. In Week 1, Ridley saw 11 targets for eight receptions, 101 yards, and a touchdown. He’s talented enough to win consistently against man coverage while retaining the necessary nuance and feel for zone coverage.
He has earned a significant target share, can make plays out of structure, and is a threat to make any catch a house call. In short, he’s a problem.
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans spoke about Ridley on Wednesday, acknowledging his ability to break open the Week 3 game.
“Calvin’s an explosive playmaker,” Ryans said. “Wherever he catches the ball you have to be ready, he’s dynamic with the ball in his hands. Really great hands on the perimeter of the defense, but he can also take those short passes that we talked about, he can go to the house.”
Ridley was less effective last week against the Kansas City Chiefs, where the Jaguars lost, 17-9. Receiver Christian Kirk saw 14 targets compared to Ridley’s eight, something head coach Doug Pederson attributed to Kansas City’s game plan.
Pederson may look to attack Houston’s struggles at the second level. Inconsistent tackling has allowed drives to linger. Targeting Ridley in the quick game could be a safe, efficient way to move the chains on Sunday.
Ryans addressed these concerns, too.
“So when it comes to tackling, we have to be on it,” Ryans continued. “Make sure we’re playing great fundamental ball … instead of making him cut back inside. Calvin is explosive, he’s fast, he’s dynamic with the ball in his hands and it’ll be a tough matchup for us.”
Getting Lawrence away from his shiny new toy won’t guarantee victory—the Jaguars have a surplus of talented weapons at their disposal. Mitigating Ridley’s impact, though, is the first step in containing a Jacksonville offense that is yet to realize its potential.
