Houston Texans Coach DeMeco Ryans 'Focused' On Cincinnati Bengals
HOUSTON — The Houston Texans pulled off an improbable 39-37 comeback victory Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. But despite the excitement, coach DeMeco Ryans doesn't want to dwell on the past.
Ryans began Monday's meeting inside NRG Stadium by telling the team how proud he was of their performance. But shortly after, Ryans turned his attention to the Texans' Week 10 contest against the Cincinnati Bengals.
"It’s on to the next game," Ryans said. "The Tampa Bay game is not going to help us win against Cincinnati, so everything – all of our preparation – everything that we’re focused on right now is on to Cincinnati."
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans reacts during the first quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at NRG Stadium.
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Shifting the team's attention to the Bengals gives the Texans a jump start on preparing for one of the top teams in the AFC. Due to Joe Burrow battling through injuries, the Bengals had a rough start to the 2023 season.
After starting the season 0-2, the Bengals have won five out of their last six games. Their most recent win came Sunday during a 24-18 victory over the Buffalo Bills. Burrow had arguably his best game of the season by throwing for 348 passing yards and two touchdowns at Paycor Stadium.
"I think Cincinnati is playing really good ball right now,' Ryans said. "Defensively, they’re attacking the ball, taking it away. An explosive offense They fly around. They play ball the right way – great coaches on both sides of the ball. It’s going to be another tough matchup for us."
The Texans will travel to Cincinnati with several injuries at key positions. But the Bengals are dealing with a handful of injuries of their own. All-Pro wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase took a significant hit during the Bengals' win over the Bills. The hit left Chase with back soreness, and his status against the Texans is unknown.
