After having some success against the Buffalo Bills offense last season, the Houston Texans defense was not able to contain quarterback Josh Allen who went off for 334 passing yards, two passing touchdowns and two rushing touchdowns.
Overall, the Texans' defense, a unit that was expected to have record-setting numbers this fall, gave up over 400 yards to Buffalo while allowing 36 points in their first loss of the season.
Speaking with the media after the game, head coach DeMeco Ryans expressed frustration with the defense’s lack of pressure on Allen throughout the game.
"For us starting the game, I thought they did a really good job of really neutralizing our defensive line,” Ryans said. “Second half, I thought the defensive line picked it up really well,
really affected the quarterback a lot more in the second half, which is what we were used to doing. We have to be tighter in our coverage. The rush and coverage works together. We have to give the defensive line a little more time. Of course, they had more max protection, shot plays, where they were throwing the ball up. We had opportunities to make those plays and they came down with them."
DeMeco Ryans on limiting the explosives:
— Houston Stressans (@TexansCommenter) September 14, 2026
“It’s simply guys doing their job. Being where they’re supposed to be. Whether it’s a coverage leverage, being outside, being inside, being on top where we’re supposed to be, how we’re rushing, our rush plan, all that goes in together. We… pic.twitter.com/SLCtsJYjqq
The Bills passing attack primarily consisted of two players - tight end Dalton Kincaid who had five receptions for 130 yards and new wide receiver DJ Moore who had five receptions for 100 yards and a touchdown.
Houston will have to solidify their pass defense, especially when going up against All-Pro wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase and Pro Bowler Tee Higgins in Sunday's showdown against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Cincinnati won its opener with Higgins leading the way. The Texans are looking to avoid starting the season 0-2 for the second season in a row.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans HC DeMeco Ryans disappointed with defense in opener vs Bills
