Texans' Playoff Path Murky Following Week 16 Debacle

All isn't loss, but the road to the 2023 postseason has become murkier for the Houston Texans following their embarrassing defeat to the Browns.

HOUSTON — With two games left in the 2023 regular season, the path to the playoffs is starting to become murkier for the Houston Texans. If the postseason started today, the Texans would be on the outside looking in following their 36-22 defeat to the Cleveland Browns.

But due to Week 16 losses by the Indianapolis Colts and Jacksonville Jaguars, the Texans are still in control of their destiny. However, when it comes to the Texans reaching their postseason aspirations, Coach DeMeco Ryans says playing better football is vital during the stretch run of the season. 

"Before we have an opportunity to talk about a playoff or get in, we've got to play better," Ryans said. "You have to earn those spots to get into the playoffs. So, if we go and play better and earn a spot, then we can talk about possibly the playoff race and what does that look like. But, until then, we’ve got to do a much better job collectively."

Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans reacts during the first quarter against the Cleveland Browns at NRG Stadium / Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Entering Week 17, the Jaguars lead the AFC South with a three-way tie, with each team holding an 8-7 record, respectively. The Colts, who defeated the Texans at NRG Stadium on Sept 17, are seventh in the AFC standings.

The potential return of rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud would give the Texans the best chance of ending the season on a much-needed two-game winning streak. 

Veteran quarterback Case Keenum could not replicate his success from the previous week. Before being benched in favor of Davis Mills, Keenum finished with 11-of-17 for 62 yards, with two interceptions and a 31.6 passer rating.  

Coach DeMeco Ryans Takes Responsibility for Embarrassing Loss

Houston is still in the running to receive their first playoff berth since 2019, but learning from the Brown's mishaps is the top priority for Ryans. 

"We didn't get the job done," Ryans said. "So, it's back to it. Next week, it's back to it. How are we going to show up next week ready to go? And, that's all that matters. Can't do anything about this game now."