Week 16: Tennessee Titans vs. Houston Texans game recap and analysis
In a surprising turn of events, the Houston Texans snapped their nine-game losing streak with a 19-14 upset victory over the Tennessee Titans on Saturday afternoon. It was a much-needed win for the Texans, who have been struggling mightily on both sides of the ball all season.
The Titans get stunned at home
Tennessee got off to a strong start, with Derrick Henry scoring a 48-yard rushing touchdown to take the lead 7-0 early in the first quarter. The Texans responded with a touchdown of their own, a fumble recovery at the Tennessee goal-line by Rex Burkhead.
Houston continued playing well in the second quarter, scoring a field goal to take the halftime lead.
After another rushing touchdown by Tennessee in the third quarter, the Texans managed to overcome a four-point deficit in the final 15 minutes of the game. First, Houston scored a 22-yard field goal to come within one point of their opponent. Then, they went 73 yards in five plays to score the go-ahead touchdown.
Although the Titans had many chances to come back, their last two drives both ended in interceptions.
They were still in the game until the very last play, when quarterback Malik Willis's hail mary pass was intercepted inside the Texans' redzone.
Mills had a solid day under center for the Texans, completing 17 of 28 passes for 178 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. He also received good support from his running backs, with Royce Freeman leading the way with 32 rushing yards on 16 carries.
The Texans defense also played well, holding the their divisional rival to just 88 passing yards and 184 rushing yards.
The Titans were led by Derrick Henry, who had a solid day on the ground with 126 rushing yards and a touchdown on 23 carries.
Willis filled in admirably for the injured Ryan Tannehill, completing 14 of 23 passes for 99 yards and two interceptions. However, it wasn't enough to overcome the Texans' strong performance.
Overall, it was a much-needed win for the team that will look to build on this victory as they try to finish the season on a high note. The Titans, meanwhile, will look to bounce back from this disappointment as they continue their push for the playoffs.
Tennessee will look forward to playing the Dallas Cowboys in Nashville next week, while the Texans have to prepare to face the AFC South division leader, the Jacksonville Jaguars.