Defensive Vulnerabilities Highlighted in Houston Loss

The Arizona Cardinals encountered significant defensive challenges during their recent clash with the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Houston’s offense exploited Arizona’s defensive lapses, including missed tackles and coverage breakdowns, enabling the Texans to sustain drives and maintain offensive momentum. The Texans’ offensive line controlled the trenches effectively, carving out running lanes and providing their quarterback with ample time to survey the field. Arizona’s defense was unable to generate consistent pressure, allowing Houston’s quarterback to connect with receivers with ease, particularly on crucial third downs.

Notable defensive shortcomings included:

• Frequent missed tackles that extended plays and increased yardage gains
• Coverage mistakes that opened passing windows in short and intermediate zones
• Insufficient pass rush leading to clean pockets for the Texans’ quarterback
• Run defense struggles that failed to contain Houston’s ground game

Below is a summary of the Texans’ offensive production capitalizing on these defensive gaps:

Offensive Errors Undermine Cardinals’ Competitiveness

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