The season quickly derailed for the Houston Texans. After starting the season 0-4, it looked like they would turn things around after winning their next two games, particularly against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

But after their overtime loss to the New York Giants, which dropped their record to 2-5, the season does not feel salvageable. One problem that has consistently gotten in Houston’s way is their penalties. In three of their last four games, they have been called for at least 10 penalties after averaging only just six penalties were game.

“We have to find a way to get that fixed. It's not winning football,” quarterback C.J. Stroud said. “When you don't give yourself a chance, those are drive killers. We just got to find a way to help whoever needs help out. At the end of the day, got to find a way to get it fixed.” 

Houston is currently on bye, giving them a chance to reset and fix their penalty issues. They also need to address problems on defense. The Texans were one of the best defenses in the NFL last year, but have struggled against the pass and the run this year.

In their Week 4 loss to the Dallas Cowboys, Houston gave up 17 receptions for 189 yards to CeeDee Lamb. Three weeks later in the Week 7 loss to the Giants, the Texans gave up nearly 200 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns, including the game-winning touchdown to former Texans running back Devin Singletary.

Offensively, Stroud has done everything right. Their problem has been in the run game. Currently, they have two running backs who are injured. Jawhar Jordan is on injured reserve, while David Montgomery is week-to-week, although he was not effective when he was healthy. It appears that Woody Marks will be Houston’s top back once again, but he only averaged 3.5 yards per carry against the Giants.

The Texans have already made trades for two wide receivers. If they decide to make another trade, they could target either a running back or someone in the secondary.

Houston returns to the field in Week 9 with a matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers.