Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans announced a huge change this week, taking over defensive play-calling duties himself from defensive coordinator Matt Burke after the team’s brutal 0-4 start. This isn’t just a tweak; it’s a desperate grab at the wheel to steer a rapidly sinking ship.
The Defense Is In Shambles, And Everyone Knows It
Let’s be real, the Texans’ defense has been a mess this season. After finishing 2025 ranked an impressive second in points allowed and first in yards allowed, per Pro-Football Reference, they’ve plummeted to 26th in points allowed and 20th in yards allowed this year. That’s a massive drop, especially when you consider there hasn’t been a huge turnover of players on that side of the ball. It’s truly baffling to see them fall so far, so fast.
Individual performances have been rough, too. Kamari Lassiter got absolutely torched for eight receptions and 136 yards on 11 targets over just 50 coverage snaps in one game, plus he racked up three penalties. That’s the most receiving yards allowed by any cornerback in a game this season. And it’s not just one guy; the team’s “3×1” looks have been a constant problem for Houston all year, showing a systemic breakdown. The pass defense, specifically, has left a lot to be desired. Ryans said he wants to “streamline communication as best as possible,” which tells you everything you need to know about the current state of things.
Ryans Takes Back The Reins In A “Tough Decision”
Ryans’ decision to seize control of the play-calling is pretty remarkable. Matt Burke has been the defensive coordinator since Ryans was hired in 2023, and he’s been calling plays since week four of the 2025 season. Think about it: Burke was even bubbling up as a potential head coach candidate after last year’s dominant defensive performance. Now, he’s effectively lost his play-calling authority. Ryans insisted this isn’t a “slight” on Burke, but when your team is 0-4 and your defense is a shadow of its former self, executive action becomes a necessity.
Ryans admitted it was a “tough decision” and that his choices “are not always popular opinion.” But honestly, taking back the play-calling? That’s probably one of the *most* popular opinions among Houston fans right now! Before he handed over the duties last year, Ryans was an exceptional defensive playcaller. He’s clearly hoping that bringing his expertise back into the huddle will spark something. He didn’t spill the beans on any other changes coming, so for now, this is it.
The Texans are headed to Tennessee for Sunday’s game. All eyes will be on that defense. Can Ryans make an immediate impact? Can he steady the ship and start turning this season around before it spirals completely out of control? It’s a huge test, and a chance for Ryans to prove he’s still got the defensive magic.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Battle Red Blog.
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