Bill O’Brien names Ryan Mallett Houston Texans starting quarterback

Houston Texans head coach Bill O’Brien has officially named Ryan Mallett as the starting quarterback.

Houston Texans head coach Bill O’Brien has officially named Ryan Mallett as the starting quarterback, the team announced Thursday during a press conference at NRG Stadium.

Brian Hoyer started the Texans’ season opener against the Chiefs and was relieved by Mallett with six minutes left in the game. Mallett finished 8 for 13 and threw a touchdown, helping pull Houston within seven points by the end of the game. Ultimately, the Texans couldn't recover and lost 27–20.

O’Brien said that his decision should not reflect poorly on Hoyer, who he says has practiced well all week. However he did say that Mallett provided the “spark” the Texans needed when he entered the game this past Sunday.

When asked about being given the starting position Mallett said his focus was just on helping his team win.

“Get a win, that's all that matters right now,” Mallett said. “I’m just going out there to try and help this team win.”

Ian Rapoport of NFL.com first reported that Mallett would be the starter for the Week 2 game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. O’Brien confirmed this before he announced Mallett as the official starter.

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- Xandria James