When talking about the Houston Texans' starters, there's promise and potential.
When dicussing the second half, it's best to forget.
Behind a final drive headlined by backup quarterback Aidan O'Connell, the Las Vegas Raiders completed a 17-point comeback to secure the22-20 win over the Texans at Reliant Stadium.
The Texans fall to 0-2 in the preseason.
The real storyline was in the first half, which the Texans dominated against Las Vegas' projected starter. No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza was intercepted by rookie linebacker Wade Woodaz, who returned the pass 80 yards for a touchdown.
Mendoza, who guided Indiana to its first national championship after winning the Heisman Trophy, was also sacked by rookie defensive tackle Kayden McDonald for
a loss of 11 yards. He played the entire first half and finished 8 of 15 passing for 86 yards.
KMAC WITH THE SACK 😮💨
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) August 21, 2026
📺: @nflonespn pic.twitter.com/kOks1uMcrW
As for the Texans' offense, starters only played in one series, but it was promising. C.J. Stroud was 4 of 6 passing for 27 yards, but picked up three third-down conversions. Running back Woody Marks got Houston on the board with a 20-yard touchdown run with 11 minutes remaining in the first quarter.
But then came the second half and self-implosion occurred. Third-string quarterback Brett Rypien fumbled on his second drive, leading to Las Vegas having exceptional field position. A 4-yard run by Dylan Laube brought the Raiders within 10 entering the fourth quarter.
Former Texans special teams star Dare Ogunbowale brought the Raiders within three following a 19-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. O'Connell, who finished 15-of-24 for 166 yards, connected with wide receiver Brandon Johnson for a 33-yard gain to set up the offense down at the 1-yard line with 16 seconds remaining.
The former Raiders starter would score on the following play to secure the win.
OPEN UP A CAN OF WOODAZZZZZZ 🤯
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) August 21, 2026
📺: @nflonespn pic.twitter.com/Ke0lrYupPs
Starters usually don't play in the preseason finale, so this could be the end for Stroud, Marks and others until Week 1.
The Texans will hit the road next Tuesday for a joint practice against the Carolina Panthers before closing out the preseason Friday night at Bank of America Stadium.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Recap: Texans starters impress, Las Vegas responds in comeback win
