In a dramatic turn of events during Sunday’s showdown, the Texans faced a significant setback as running back Joe Mixon was injured early in the third quarter. It was Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards who delivered the contentious tackle, a move Texans Coach DeMeco Ryans did not shy away from calling out.
The Tackle That Shocked the Stadium
"It was definitely an illegal hip drop tackle," Ryans declared with palpable frustration. Reviewing the game film on Monday, Ryans confirmed his stance, emphasizing that Edwards deliberately used a technique where a defender "unweights himself and puts all his weight on the runner’s legs."
- Mixon’s ankle bore the brunt of the impact
- The tackle’s rarity combined with its high risk of injury
- Why the NFL wants to “get the hip drop tackle out of the game”
“You see why this play needs to be eradicated," Ryans continued passionately. "It inflicts injuries almost every time, and Joe’s ankle paid the price this time. The defender’s weight crushing down on Joe’s leg. It’s a tough pill to swallow.”
Coach Ryans: A Vision for Safer Tackles
Recounting the grim moment, Ryans illustrated the dilemma defenders face and the inevitable, regrettable choice Edwards made. “It’s about coaching better,” Ryans noted, his voice filled with a mix of determination and frustration. “No one wants defenders in that bad spot where they can just unweight themselves and slam down on a runner’s leg. It’s not what the game is about.”
League’s Response on Tackle
While Edwards escaped without a penalty during the game, a fine from the league is looming. Notably, the NFL has already fined two players for similar offences in Week 1. The message is clear: the league is not taking this lightly.
Mixon’s Future Up in the Air
It’s a waiting game now for Mixon, who underwent an MRI on Monday. Despite making a brief return to the field, logging only seven snaps, his status remains uncertain. “We’ll see on the injury,” said Ryans, pragmatic but hopeful. “It’s day by day.”
Mixon’s Call to Action
Although Mixon avoided reporters post-game, he didn’t hold back on social media, demanding the league enforce its rules with more consistency. "The NFL and NFLPA made it a rule and an emphasis for a reason," Mixon rallied online. "Time to put your money where your mouth is."
Texans’ Turbulent Backfield
As if the situation needed more drama, backup running back Dameon Pierce was out due to a hamstring issue, and third-stringer Cam Akers fumbled at the goal line in a crucial moment late in the fourth quarter. Talk about a messy predicament!
Wrapping Up with Irony and Hope
Football, much like a Peruvian festivity, is full of highs and lows, twists and turns. As the Texans prepare for the week ahead, fans can only hold their breath, hoping for a swift recovery for Mixon and a stronger, more resilient return to the field.
Here’s to hoping that next Sunday brings better fortunes and fewer heartbreaking tackles. Até la proxima, football aficionados!
