What happened: Dan Orlovsky pointed to Houston's situational offense as its clearest weakness entering the preseason. The 2025 unit ranked 26th in goal-to-go efficiency and 30th in red-zone efficiency.
Why it matters: Houston's defense gives the team little room for improvement on that side of the ball. Turning more short-field possessions into touchdowns could determine whether the offense matches the defense's standard.
By the numbers: The Texans ranked 26th in goal-to-go efficiency and 30th in red-zone efficiency in 2025. Their defense allowed 270 yards per game, the NFL's lowest average since the 2009 New York Jets.
What to watch: Preseason red-zone possessions will offer the first measure of Houston's situational adjustments. Goal-to-go execution remains the central checkpoint.