Houston Texans coach DeMeco Ryans sheds light on the strategy to tackle Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry ahead of their Week 15 clash. Despite Henry’s reputation as a formidable force, signs of wear and tear, coupled with challenges in the Titans’ offensive line, have made his dominant performances less frequent. However, the Texans recognize the importance of containing Henry and disrupting rookie quarterback Will Levis.
Ryans emphasizes the need for fundamentally sound tackling to counter Henry’s physical running style. Advising against high tackles, he outlines a plan that involves attacking the thighs and focusing on lower body tackles to halt the powerful runner. Acknowledging the team effort required, Ryans stresses the importance of multiple players converging on Henry to effectively neutralize his impact on the game.
The task may prove challenging for the Texans, as Pro Football Focus ranks them as the second-worst tackling team in the league, just ahead of the Denver Broncos. Complicating matters, linebacker Blake Cashman, a standout performer, is sidelined with a hamstring injury. Despite the defensive challenges, Ryans expresses a preference for facing physical runners like Henry over smaller, elusive backs.
Ryans reflects on the physical nature of the Texans vs. Titans rivalry, emphasizing the importance of a strong defensive performance for a much-needed victory. Henry remains a focal point for the Titans, and the Texans’ defense must rise to the occasion.
With a 7-6 record, a loss could jeopardize their playoff aspirations, making the Week 15 clash a critical moment for the Texans. The outcome may hinge on the effectiveness of Houston’s run defense, which could determine the team’s fate in this crucial matchup.
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