Texans vs. Ravens: Halftime Observations for the Texans

The Texans are facing a critical game today versus a dangerous Baltimore Ravens team. Coming off a tough loss in Oakland, the Texans need to regain their confidence this week as they face back-to-back division matchups over the next two weeks. 

The game got interesting late in the second quarter, but let's take a look at how the Texans can cruise back into the win column in Baltimore. 

1) Bring Joe Down to Earth

Baltimore Ravens' QB Joe Flacco was completing less than 50 percent of his passes coming into this game. He then proceeded to complete seven of eight for 82 yards on their opening drive, capping it off with a rushing touchdown. The Ravens made it look easy on this revamped Texans defense and the bad penalties on the goal line made it easier. The Texans have been absolutely relentless from that point on and Flacco has been looking up from the flat of his back several times. Keep this up and Flacco will start forcing throws, hopefully leading to turnovers. 

2) Get Wade Smith Involved

Just making sure you were paying attention. Amazing heads up play by offensive lineman Wade Smith to jump on Ben Tate's fumble. The big man's TD put the Texans on the board for the first time against Baltimore. Sure, it was a right place at the right time type of situation but being lucky is often just as effective as being good.

3) Ground and Pound

Arian Foster and Ben Tate did a great job on the ground in the first half. With Johnson out today, Arian Foster becomes the clear No. 1 playmaker for Houston. You win the game when you put the ball in the hands of the playmakers. Whether it's handing the ball up the gut or catching passes out of the backfield, Foster will be crucial to the Texans second half. 

4) Empty Backfield

The Ravens continue to run an empty backfield late in the second half. With less blockers protecting Flacco, the pass-rushers need to get to Flacco immediately because his strong arm is great on quick slants. Be weary.