Texans Shake Off Early Mistakes, Knock Off Cardinals In Much-Needed Win

HOUSTON — The Houston Texans (4-6) managed to break a three-game losing skid with a strong second half, surmounting an early deficit to defeat the struggling Arizona Cardinals (4-6) by a final score of 31-21 at NRG Stadium. It was Texans starting quarterback Tom Savage’s first win of this season after a pair of dismal performances.

After the game, Savage told Fox NFL sideline reporter Krstina Pink, “Our defense did a great job. This team is a resilient bunch and I’m just happy to be part of it.” Savage added, “We looked at each other [at halftime] and said, ‘enough is enough. We’ve got to win these games, eventually.’”

Overcoming Early Adversity

Things appeared to be business as usual for Savage after a second quarter that saw him lose a fumble and throw an interception resulting in 14 points and the lead for the Cardinals. Apparently enough was enough as Savage redeemed himself, throwing for 230 yards on 22-of-30 attempts and two-touchdown tosses. It was the first time in four years that Savage threw for two scores in the same game.

More Injury Woes For The Texans

Rookie running back D’Onta Foreman – a former Texas City high school and University of Texas Longhorn standout – took a sweep for 34 yards and added the final score of the game to seal the deal for the home team.

Unfortunately for him, safety Antoine Bethea managed to trip up Foreman right before he crossed the goal line causing him to collapse into the end zone, immediately clutching the lower part of his left leg. He was later carted into the training room and it was reported that he torn his left Achilles tendon.

Peterson Struggles Continue

Former Texas high school star and future NFL Hall of Famer Adrian Peterson had yet another subpar performance rushing for a meager 26 yards on 14 carries against the Texans’ defense. After sparking their offense in the first three starts as a Cardinal, Peterson has slowed significantly in the last two outings. At 32 years old and running behind a depleted offensive line, it will be interesting to see if Peterson can turn it around soon.

Next Up

The Texans will try to keep things going next week when they meet the Baltimore Ravens (5-5) on Monday Night Football in Baltimore. For Peterson and the Cardinals, things don’t get any easier as they will face the AFC South leaders, the Jacksonville Jaguar, and their stout defense.

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