A 22-20 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders meant the Houston Texans dropped to 0-2 this preseason, a truly deflating finish that echoes last week’s game. It’s tough, especially coming after the devastating news yesterday about WR Jayden Higgins’ injury, but man, this showing was still way more satisfying than their opener against the Chargers.
Explosive Starts, Familiar Faces
Seriously, the Texans came out swinging against first overall pick QB Fernando Mendoza, and they actually delivered exactly what fans were looking for after Higgins’ news. The first-stringers put together a methodical, run-heavy drive that finished with a nasty 20-yard touchdown run from Woody Marks. Not long after, rookie LB Wade Woodaz went off, picking off Mendoza for a sensational pick-six! The stadium absolutely erupted, it felt like a crucial late-season game, the roar was that big. And then, as if that wasn’t enough, Jadeveon Clowney, number 90, announced his return to Houston by deflecting a pass against Mendoza on third down. It’s been seven years, but seeing Clowney screaming off the edge again for that defensive line is such a welcome sight. He looks like an excellent depth piece, and if this preseason is any indicator, Houston’s gonna lean heavily on its D-line in 2026.
The Second String and the Raiders’ Push Back
After that incredible three-and-out by the Raiders, backup QB Davis Mills hit the field with a bunch of second and third-stringers. He was slinging it, targeting backup TE Foster Moreau and Noah Whittington. Mills even dropped a nice completion to undrafted rookie Daniel Sobkowicz on third down, but it just wasn’t enough for a fresh set of downs. So, Houston settled for a field goal, taking a 17-0 lead with just over three minutes left in the first quarter. You thought they had it in the bag, right? Not so fast. The Raiders quickly responded with a field goal drive of their own, led by some seriously impressive runs from rookie RB Mike Washington, who was just too fast for Texans LB Jake Hummel, and FB/TE Connor Hayward. Texans rookie DT Kayden McDonald, however, stepped up and sacked Mendoza for an eleven-yard loss, reminding everyone what this defensive line can do. The Raiders still settled for a field goal, then both teams traded punts before Houston grabbed another field goal just before halftime.
It was a tough pill to swallow to end up 0-2 after so many flashes of brilliance. These preseason games might sting now, but the team’s showing some real grit. With players like Woodaz making big plays and Clowney back in the fold, you gotta wonder what these guys are going to bring to the field next.
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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