Why was Texans DT Ross Blacklock inactive versus the Steelers?
Houston Texans rookie defensive tackle Ross Blacklock was inactive for the club’s Week 3 encounter with the Pittsburgh Steelers Sunday at Heinz Field.
The second-rounder from TCU was inactive for the first time this season, and it comes right after his ejection in Week 2 in the 33-16 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, when he allegedly threw a punch.
Texans coach Bill O’Brien was asked about why Blacklock was a healthy scratch for the Steelers, and the seventh-year coach did not provide much information.
“We just try to make decisions for the best interest of the team for that week, and that’s what we decided to do,” said O’Brien.
Getting the spot on the active roster was defensive lineman Carlos Watkins, who provided two total tackles, 1.0 sack, a quarterback hit, and a tackle for loss.
However, the swapping of Blacklock for Watkins did not help Houston’s run defense. The Steelers gashed Houston with 38 carries for 169 yards and a touchdown. Running back James Conner led all rushers with 18 carries for 109 yards and the Steelers’ score on the ground.
On the season, Blacklock has one tackle for the Texans. Houston will need more contributions, either from Blacklock or others, if they want to stop the run and rebound from their 0-3 start.
