{
  "id": 16912586,
  "title": "Playing the Texans Blame game",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/28/playing-the-texans-blame-game",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-28T14:35:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/playing-texans-blame-game-143500564.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As the Houston Texans find themselves in a bye week, it becomes clear that a blame game is inevitable. Players cannot be fired, but they are often the target of criticism. While talk radio and sports debate shows rarely discuss player releases, they thrive on discussing players in uniforms. These discussions occasionally reach the front office, but opinions on this matter belong to a single reporter with no coaching experience.\n\nThe Indianapolis Colts have already parted ways with head coach Chris Ballard, and the league typically replaces five to six head coaches annually. With this in mind, here's a list of potential Texans to be cut. Cole Popovich, once highly rated as a center, is now starting for the Lions, indicating that he may not have thrived in Houston. Offensive line issues seem to be a recurring problem, with multiple changes and continued complaints throughout the years. Despite Popovich's promotion from an assistant position, the reasoning behind this move remains unclear.\n\nMatt Burke's performance has plummeted following a stellar defense last season. While Burke is generally liked, the drop in defensive performance warrants consideration for a change. DeMeco Ryans, the head coach, is responsible for the plays made and, consequently, is the logical target for blame if his decision-making is causing issues. Frank Bush, the special teams coordinator, has seen a decline in coverage and punting performances. While he remains a valuable asset, this season's struggles may lead to repercussions.\n\nNick Caley's role is at the center of debate. The Texans' offense ranks middle of the pack or better in most offensive categories but lags behind in running the ball and pre-snap penalties. Depending on one's expectations for the team, Caley's contributions may be seen as positive or negative. DeMeco Ryans envisions a ball-control team, but the current roster may not align with that vision. Firing Caley could lead to a similar situation as before.\n\nDeMeco Ryans' disciplinary actions are a topic of discussion. While some argue against firing coaches mid-season, Ryans' coaching decisions may be the reason for the team's struggles. If Ryans improved his game management, it could change the narrative. Gary Kubiak's success in 2010 with an exceptional offense and a poor defense offers a contrasting example. Ownership's control over personnel decisions may force changes in the future. Finally, the trade for Marvin Harrison Jr. will likely have significant consequences, and the team's performance may hinge on how successfully they integrate him into the offense.",
  "summary": "Which coaches and executives deserve the blame for this slow start?",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}