3. Ravens’ Defense Set the Tone

For as unimpressive the Texans’ offense was in this game, the Ravens’ defense deserves plenty of credit for the lack of results Houston achieved. There was a real blend of big plays from Baltimore’s unit to go along with consistent results.

It was a real struggle for the Texans to get going in the running game, as previously mentioned. The Ravens not only shut down David Johnson on his 11 carries, but they also kept Deshaun Watson in check when he decided to take off for a run.

The Ravens allowed the Texans to reach the red-zone on just two possessions — allowing a score on just one of those trips. Aside from the 38-yard pass to Brandin Cooks that ultimately set up Houston’s only touchdown, the Ravens didn’t give meaningful big plays.

Let’s not forget, the Ravens’ defense managed to force a fumble that resulted in a scoop and score and picked off Watson. Baltimore went above-and-beyond in their execution on this end and gave the offense more than enough support to get the win.