DeMeco Ryans Calls Out Texans’ Tackling Ahead of Giants Matchup

The Houston Texans have found a way to win back-to-back games after an 0-4 start, but head coach DeMeco Ryans knows there is still plenty of work to do.

Ahead of their matchup against the New York Giants, Ryans made it clear that the defense needs immediate improvement when it comes to tackling.

Houston defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars 34-31 on Sunday, earning another important victory as the team attempts to turn its season around. However, the defensive performance left room for improvement, particularly when it came to stopping Jacksonville’s running backs after contact.

Ryans did not hide his frustration when discussing the issue with the media on Monday.

“Right now, the tackling is not good enough. Way too many missed tackles. We have to make those tackles. Tackling has to improve,” Ryans said.

According to Ryans, the Texans were frequently in position to make plays but failed to execute. Jacksonville’s running backs deserve credit for breaking tackles, but Houston’s defense must improve when attempting to bring ball carriers down.

“We were in position to make the tackle. Credit to Jacksonville running backs, they broke a lot tackles,” Ryans said. “Have to wrap up, squeeze and run your feet, just kind of arm tackling.”

The difference between slowing the ball carrier down after making initial contact and completing a tackle can determine whether a defense gets off the field or allows an offense to extend a drive. Against Jacksonville, Houston struggled to consistently finish plays, creating an issue Ryans wants corrected before next week’s matchup against New York.

The timing makes the concern even more significant. The Texans will face a Giants team with a physical running back room featuring Cam Skattebo, Devin Singletary and Tyrone Tracy, giving Houston an immediate opportunity to prove they can improve in that area.

Ryans specifically acknowledged the challenge New York presents and emphasized how quickly his defense needs to make adjustments.

“We have to improve very quickly,” Ryans said.

For Houston, the priority is straightforward. Being in the right position is important, but it means nothing if the defense can’t complete the play.

The Texans have given themselves a chance to build momentum with consecutive victories, but sustaining that success will require continued improvement. A physical rushing attack can expose poor tackling habits.

Against the Giants, Houston will face another test of its discipline on the defensive side of the ball. Ryans has already made his expectations clear, and the Texans will need to respond on the field if they want to continue their winning streak.