The Houston Texans have settled on a promising configuration for their offensive line, aiming for stability and effectiveness as they head into a crucial matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. This new lineup showcased its potential last Thursday against the Buffalo Bills, marking yet another change as the team continues to search for the right mix after trading five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil.
This latest iteration of the offensive line is arguably the most proficient the Texans have fielded this season, representing their seventh different starting lineup. The line featured rookie left tackle Aireontae Ersery, who stepped up impressively, while Tytus Howard shifted to left guard after previously playing right guard and right tackle. The veterans, including center Jake Andrews and right guard Ed Ingram, maintained their roles, with former Pro Bowl selection Trent Brown starting at right tackle for the third consecutive game. This alignment yielded immediate results, as the Texans secured their third straight victory without allowing a single sack.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans emphasized the importance of having “our best five guys out there,” commending Howard for his versatility and willingness to adapt to different positions. “He shows that he”s a smart player,” Ryans noted, praising Howard”s ability to handle the various challenges the team has presented to him.
Brown, at 6-foot-8 and 380 pounds, delivered a standout performance against veteran defensive end Joey Bosa, not allowing any pressures during their matchup. This achievement marked the first time since 2018 that a lineman has managed to shut out Bosa. The Texans” offensive line recorded its lowest pressure rate since the fifth game of the season, with only a 16.1 percent pressure rate, according to Next Gen Stats.
Howard, a former first-round draft pick, praised the talent within the lineup, stating, “Everybody can play.” The journey to this configuration has not been without challenges, particularly due to injuries and earlier missteps, such as the decision to start Sidy Sow at right guard against the Jacksonville Jaguars, which led to his quick benching.
As the season began, Ingram was sidelined with an abdominal injury, prompting a shuffle in the offensive line during a loss to the Los Angeles Rams. The Texans initially started Cam Robinson at left tackle and later moved to a different configuration that ultimately did not yield positive results against the Rams” formidable front.
Ingram has revitalized his career in Houston, boasting a career-high 77.4 overall grade, ranking seventh among NFL guards this season. He has also demonstrated proficiency in run blocking, with an impressive 81.0 grade. Meanwhile, Ersery, a second-round pick, has faced growing pains but has shown improvement, notably allowing no sacks against the Bills.
The offensive line”s cohesion will be tested against a strong Colts defensive front, featuring emerging talent like Laiatu Latu, who has already made a significant impact this season. Ryans noted Latu”s development as a pass rusher, highlighting the need for the Texans to maintain their focus and work ethic to succeed against such formidable opponents.
As the Texans prepare for their matchup against the Colts, the offensive line”s recent success will be crucial in supporting C.J. Stroud, who is returning from a concussion protocol. Stroud expressed excitement about reuniting with his teammates, emphasizing the growth and improvement of the unit in recent weeks.
With the Texans aiming to build on their momentum, their ability to keep their quarterback protected and establish a solid running game will be vital as they continue their pursuit of success in the AFC South.
