Jags Deliver Knockout Blow to Texans

The Houston Texans are snakebitten. They entered Week 9 with a 5-3 record and were the darlings of the underdog-loving football fans -- plus, they looked poised to make the postseason for the first time in franchise history. Since then, the Texans have lost four games in a row. Twice, they could have tied the game at the conclusion of regulation, but Kris Brown missed field goals. Last week, they blew a 17-0 lead to the Colts at home.

Sunday, some more things were working against the Texans. Like Steve Slaton's injury. Like Matt Schaub having to leave the game and watch Rex Grossman do what Rex Grossman does (go 3 of 9 and throw a pick). Like Chris Brown throwing an interception on a gimmick play. Like falling behind 17-0 to a team who, frankly, isn't near as talented. And, finally ... like falling to 5-7 in a season that once had so much promise.

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Give the Jaguars credit, they played their game and got the job done 23-18, as they usually do at home (where they are now 5-1). Their passing game was efficient -- as David Garrard connected with nine different receivers throughout the afternoon. They ran the ball well when they needed to -- such as Maurice Jones-Drew gaining two first downs on the final drive to end the game -- and won the turnover battle. They pressured a banged-up Schaub throughout the afternoon and played well on special teams.

As a reward, at 7-5, the Jaguars are right in the thick of the AFC wild-card race. They have two more games at home (against the Dolphins and Colts) before facing the Patriots and Browns on the road. It's not going to be easy to win three of four, especially having to face the Colts and travel to New England, but it's definitely possible, and that would likely get them in the playoffs.

For the Texans, getting the Seahawks at home next week appears to be a good bet to pick up the pieces and snap the season-crippling losing streak. They don't have a realistic shot at the playoffs, but you never know. Taking things one game at a time never hurt.