Houston Texans Defense Dominates Pittsburgh Steelers In First Half

The Houston Texans' defense is playing lights out in the first half, holding up their end of the bargain against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Houston Texans' defense has shut down the Pittsburgh Steelers' offense, as they lead 16-0 at halftime at NRG Stadium Sunday.

Houston's defense allowed only four first downs and 53 yards on 24 plays in the opening 30 minutes, forcing two three-and-outs and a pick. The Texans held Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett to 9-for-14 for 35 yards and an interception, getting sacked twice for 12 yards.

Pickett's counterpart, Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, has outplayed him, completing 10-of-20 passes for 179 yards and one touchdown.

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) lines up under center against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first half at NRG Stadium Sunday / USA TODAY Sports

It took longer than expected, but the Texans opened the scoring on their first drive of the game but punched it in to take a 7-0 lead.

Stroud for what appeared to be a 5-yard touchdown, but was ruled down at the 1/2-yard line. After a false start, running back Dameon Pierce's 5-yard touchdown reception was nullified by Shaq Mason's second penalty in as many downs — this time an ineligible man downfield flag.

A defensive pass interference put the ball on the 2-yard line where Stroud connected with wide receiver Nico Collins for the game's opening touchdown.

Pittsburgh took a 46-yard shot down the field to Calvin Austin III, but Texans cornerback Steven Nelson picked it off and racked up a 33-yard return. Houston went 27 yards in nine plays but settled for a 36-yard field goal to extend its lead to 10-0.

Kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn drilled a 39-yard attempt as time expired in the first half, capping off a 3-for-3 frame.

Pierce has run 14 times for 61 yards, while Stroud has carried it three times for 15 yards.

The Texans will induct 10-year defensive end J.J. Watt into the franchise's Ring of Honor at halftime.