The Houston Texans put themselves back in the playoff picture with a ground-breaking rally to overcome the Baltimore Ravens in overtime, 34-28.  Then I woke up.

No, like the Lions and drama-riddled Bengals, Houston managed to find yet another creative way to endure disappointing defeat in overtime, 34-28. 

The game began just like any other this season for the Texans. 

Joe Flacco and company took off with a fast 21-0 start, with Houston’s offense appearing almost non-existent in its first few possessions.  Matt Schaub and the Texans were able to get on the scoreboard before halftime, finding the end zone with Andre Johnson.  

This left the Ravens with a comfortable 21-7 lead heading into halftime.

The Ravens struck right back on the opening kickoff in the second half as rookie David Reed broke four tackles on his way to a 103-yard score, extending the lead to 28-7. 

But this wouldn’t keep the Texans away from fighting back, as they even dominated the rest of the way during regulation.

Schaub & Co. engineered two drives that resulted in field goals and two ground-breaking lengthy drives of 95 and 99 yards, roaring back from the deep hole the team dug in the first half. 

Bob Levey/Getty Images

But it wasn't enough to come out with a "w," as last year's Pro Bowl MVP put the dagger in the heart of the Texans faithful—throwing a pick six to Ravens corner Josh Wilson during Houston's first possession in OT. 

Schaub completed 31 of 62 passes for just shy of 400 yards on the night.

Put the blame wherever you want—the coin toss—pun intended, play call not to run the ball first in overtime, etc., it is what it is. 

Ultimately outside of the possibility of coaching, I would place the blame on the mind-boggling trend of slow-paced sluggish starts to each game.  Perhaps starting with a "two-minute” style of offense will change the outcome.  At this point, at 5-8, why not try it? 

The Texans are not completely eliminated mathematically, but realistically, the fat lady has been singing for half an hour. 

It may sound like a broken record, but I'm blown away by the relentless heart-breaking trends. Despite some improvements on defense (which produced five sacks), something's still gotta give.

I’m an optimist, and I believe the Texans will likely finish out at 8-8 and can get some help, but just not enough.  Too little, too late.  I’ll leave you with the Verse of the Piece and some highlights of Andre Johnson to help cope with some of the pain. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VZ44aphKGOc

Verse of This Piece

“Be careful what you think, because your thoughts run your life. Don’t use your mouth to tell lies; don’t ever say things that are not true.  Keep your eyes focused on what is right, and look straight ahead to what is good.” —Proverbs 4:23-25

Formerly known as Sportscaster007, My Dad’s Son has a written a verse with nearly every article since he began with his 50th piece. 

This is just something small to illustrate his glory for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  Though you are under absolutely no obligation to read the scripture(s) I include, I believe this will be of benefit to your life and hope this will inspire someone to speak out about their love for God, without fear, and perhaps one day start somewhat of a trend.  God Bless and Carpe Diem!

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