Texans’ defensive grades from 23-20 win over the Buccaneers

The Houston Texans defense turned in an opportunistic performance against the Tamp Bay Buccaneers Saturday afternoon in a 23-20 win in Week 16.

linebackers

texans-like-bring-back-whitney-mercilus
(AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)

The linebacking corps was playing without a Pro Bowler in inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney, which meant they would have a vulnerability in the middle. However, Peter Kalambayi had a solid performance with two tackles. Zach Cunningham played like his Pro Bowl alternate self with a team-high six tackles and a pass breakup. Mercilus added 2.0 sacks along with four tackles, two quarterback hits, and a tackle for loss. Brennan Scarlett added a pass breakup. Tyrell Adams had a forced fumble along with five tackles.

Grade: B+