The Houston Texans have been as incompatible with red zone efficiency Oklahoma roads are to smooth asphalt.
Houston’s 46.2% red zone efficiency is the third-lowest in the NFL. The Texans’ struggle in the red zone have been a key contributor to their 1-12-1 record.
However, Houston was able to play above their average against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 15. Despite taking another loss, the Texans gave the AFC West champions a scare as they took the Chiefs into overtime before losing 30-24. What helped Houston stay competitive with Kansas City was their red zone efficiency of 3-4 (75%).
What helped Houston improve their red zone efficiency was their quarterback play.
“I try to pride myself on situational football, third-downs and red zone,” quarterback Davis Mills said. “Any opportunity we get in the red zone we want to finish with a touchdown.”
Indeed Mills was a big factor in the red zone for Houston as he contributed with two red zone passing touchdowns. The former 2021 third-rounder also got it done on the ground as he rushed for a 17-yard score.
Ultimately there was a formula the Texans followed that provided for success, and it can be a legitimate strategy over the final three games.
Said Mills: “As long as I can get the ball out on time and our guys are creating separation, the concepts allow us to score a lot of points. We want to get down there as often as possible and hopefully have multiple opportunities down there.”
The Texans take on the Tennessee Titans Dec. 24 at 12:00 p.m. Central Time from Nissan Stadium. The Titans defense has the 14th-highest red zone efficiency with 56.4% of opponent red zone trips converted to touchdowns. If the Texans are able to return to their 75% conversion rate from a week ago, it should help them avoid getting swept.