The Buffalo Bills head into halftime with a ten point deficit against the Houston Texans, thanks largely to two massive special teams miscues. A muffed punt by rookie returner Ray-Ray McCloud was returned by the Texans, leading to a short field and a touchdown. Then the Texans blocked a punt in Bills territory, setting up a field goal to extend Houston’s lead.
The Bills haven’t had any favors working with the referees, either. Tre’Davious White has been flagged twice for holding, extending Texans drives on third downs, and offensive holding penalties wiped out a first down gain and a 54-yard punt late in the second quarter.
The Bills offense has failed to connect on passing plays longer than 5 yards, and the offense was held to 55(!) yards in the first half. The defense held the Texans to 115 yards (with three sacks, a forced fumble, and an end zone interception), but those special teams mistakes have made the difference in this defensive battle.
Bills defensive end Trent Murphy walked off the field with an injury late in the second quarter. His return is questionable.
The Texans will start the second half with the football. The Bills need to make up ground on offense with their second half adjustments. We’re talking about the second half in here. Go Bills!