Justin Herbert’s Resilience Leaves Texans’ DeMeco Ryans in Awe
Facing off against the Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith proved to be a more challenging endeavor than the Houston Texans initially anticipated. This week, however, the stakes rise as they prepare to contend with the dynamic abilities of Los Angeles Chargers superstar Justin Herbert. Despite nursing a broken left hand, Herbert has continued to elevate his game, keeping the Chargers firmly in the playoff race within the competitive AFC West.
Ryans Aims to Rally His Defense
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans expressed visible frustration over his defense’s lapses during their recent game against the Raiders, even as his unit managed to pull off a victory. His intention to refocus the team appears to be driven by the looming challenge posed by Herbert. Ryans is acutely aware of Herbert’s skill set and has taken steps to prepare his players for the unique threats he brings to the field.
“Really talented quarterback. One of the toughest guys I’ve seen in the pocket,” Ryans remarked about Herbert. He emphasized the importance of understanding Herbert’s style, sharing clips with his team that showcase the quarterback’s decision-making and resilience. “He’s an impressive young player who’s doing a really good job. They’re doing a good job of playing well around him,” Ryans added.
Herbert’s Toughness Shines Through
Critics may point to Herbert’s lack of playoff success thus far, but his toughness in the face of adversity is undeniable. Ryans recognizes that Herbert stands tall in the pocket, even when under pressure from the Texans’ fierce pass rush. Yet, it’s not just Herbert’s physical stature that impresses Ryans; it’s his exceptional decision-making that sets him apart.
“Justin is making really good decisions with the football,” Ryans noted. He highlighted Herbert’s athleticism, which allows him to navigate the pocket effectively. “When you hear about Justin Herbert, you don’t hear a lot of people talk about that. But man, his ability to escape the A and B gaps is very similar to [Patrick] Mahomes in that way.”
Ryans appreciates the added dimension Herbert brings with his zone-read capability, particularly in critical moments when the game hangs in the balance. “When it’s crunch time, and he needs to make a play, he’ll pull the ball and make plays for you,” he said, underscoring the dual threat Herbert presents.
As the Texans gear up to face Herbert and the Chargers, Ryans’ focus on instilling respect for the young quarterback’s skill set will be pivotal in determining the outcome of this high-stakes matchup.
