The Houston Texans turned the tide on October 5, 2025, blasting the Baltimore Ravens by a staggering 44-10 at M&T Bank Stadium. Quarterback C.J. Stroud delivered four touchdown passes, finally breaking a personal duck‑in‑four against Baltimore, while the Ravens fought without star signal‑caller Lamar Jackson, who was sidelined with a calf injury. The result not only snapped Houston’s early‑season offensive woes but also deepened Baltimore’s slump to a third straight loss.
Game Overview: A One‑Sided Battle
From the opening drive, the Texans seized control. Their first possession stretched 67 yards over ten plays, culminating in a rushing touchdown that set the tone. By halftime, Houston had piled up 24 unanswered points, and the final quarter saw the same 10‑point burst that sealed the win. The scoring ledger reads:
- 1st Quarter – Texans 7, Ravens 3
- 2nd Quarter – Texans 17, Ravens 0
- 3rd Quarter – Texans 10, Ravens 7
- 4th Quarter – Texans 10, Ravens 0
Overall, Houston outgained Baltimore 471 to 216 yards and held the ball for a decisive 34:12 of possession.
Stroud's Breakthrough Performance
For C.J. Stroud, the night was a career‑changing audition. He completed 25 of 31 attempts (an 80.6% completion rate) for 267 yards, tossed four scores and avoided a single interception. At an 8.6‑yard per attempt average, his precision resembled a seasoned veteran more than a rookie still finding his footing.
Beyond the air game, Stroud added a 30‑yard scramble on a single carry, showcasing the dual‑threat flair that the Texans have been eager to unlock. His composure under pressure was evident when he turned a blitz on the Ravens’ 40‑yard line into a 47‑yard bomb caught by wideout Christian Kirk, which later became the longest reception of the night.
Rushing Attack Dominates
While Stroud stole most headlines, the ground game was equally decisive. Houston’s offensive line carved lanes for a total of 167 rushing yards on 33 carries, averaging 5.1 yards per attempt. Veteran back Nick Chubb led the charge with 11 carries for 61 yards and a rushing touchdown that capped a 27‑yard burst early in the second quarter.
Supporting the workhorse were Dameon Pierce (7 carries, 21 yards), Weston Marks (7 carries, 24 yards) and a surprise cameo from running back Juwan Brooks (2 carries, 15 yards). The balanced attack kept the Ravens’ defense guessing and prevented any rhythm from forming.
Ravens’ Struggles Without Jackson
Missing Lamar Jackson was the Ravens’ Achilles’ heel. Backup quarterback Cooper Rush entered the game, but his 12‑yard pass to Mark Andrews was the lone highlight of a stagnant offense. Baltimore mustered only a field goal in the first quarter and a short rushing touchdown in the third, falling silent the rest of the way.
Running back Derrick Henry broke through for 64 yards on 14 carries, yet even his veteran power couldn’t compensate for the lack of a dynamic passing game. Penalties also plagued Baltimore, with nine infractions costing them crucial yardage and momentum.
Implications for AFC Standings
With the win, the Texans improved to 2‑3 overall and 1‑2 on the road, nudging them ahead of the division‑bottom Tennessee Titans. In the AFC South, Indianapolis now sits at 4‑1, Jacksonville at 3‑1, and Houston’s surge could make the South tighter than expected.
For the Ravens, the loss dropped them to 1‑4, leaving them tied with the Cleveland Browns at the bottom of the AFC North. Pittsburgh Steelers lead the division at 3‑1, while Cincinnati Bengals sit at 2‑3. If Baltimore continues this slide, their playoff hopes could evaporate before the season’s midway point.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Both Teams?
Houston travels to Indianapolis next week to face the Colts, a matchup that could test whether the offensive rhythm is sustainable against a top‑tier defense. Coach DeMeco Ryans praised his players’ “confidence” but cautioned against “getting ahead of ourselves.”
Meanwhile, the Ravens must decide whether to ride Cooper Rush into a longer stretch or accelerate Lamar Jackson’s return. Head coach John Harbaugh hinted at “adjustments” on both sides of the ball during the post‑game press conference.
Key Facts
- Final score: Houston Texans 44, Baltimore Ravens 10
- Date & location: October 5, 2025, M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD
- Quarterback performance: C.J. Stroud – 25/31, 267 yards, 4 TDs, 0 INT
- Rushing leaders: Nick Chubb – 61 yards, 1 TD; Derrick Henry – 64 yards on 14 carries
- Standings impact: Texans 2‑3, Ravens 1‑4
Frequently Asked Questions
How did C.J. Stroud overcome his previous struggles against the Ravens?
Stroud adjusted his pre‑snap reads and exploited mismatches against Baltimore’s secondary, which was missing key nickel cornerbacks. He also leaned on quick slants and intermediate routes, allowing him to release the ball faster than in prior meetings, resulting in a flawless 80.6% completion rate.
What impact does Lamar Jackson’s injury have on the Ravens’ playoff outlook?
Missing Jackson for two consecutive games has already cost Baltimore two defeats, dropping them to 1‑4. Even if he returns by Week 7, the team must win at least five of their remaining ten games to stay in the AFC North race, a steep climb given the division’s current hierarchy.
Did the Texans’ defense contribute significantly to the blowout?
Absolutely. Houston forced three turnovers, including a fumble recovered in the red zone, and recorded eight sacks, keeping the Ravens off balance and preventing any comeback momentum.
What does this win mean for the AFC South race?
The victory pulls Houston within a game of the division leader Indianapolis and ties them with Jacksonville for second place. If the Texans keep this offensive pace, they could challenge for a wild‑card spot later in the season.
When is the next encounter between the Texans and Ravens?
The two sides meet again in Week 12, hosted by Houston at NRG Stadium. That matchup will likely determine whether the Ravens can rebound or if the Texans have truly turned the corner.
- Tag Populer
- Texans
- C.J. Stroud
- Baltimore Ravens
- M&T Bank Stadium
- NFL
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