By: Cory Lozier
How It’s Going vs. How It Started
It’s not over yet, but I’m sure we can agree that the Roughnecks have had themselves a very interesting season. They had a really rocky start needing to switch between 1st and 2nd string QB’s to see who had a better handle on the offense. While, defensively they seemed to be hitting their stride and keeping Houston competitive. Then both quarterbacks were injured and Jalan McClendon would get his shot under center. He would remain “the guy” after bringing the stagnant offense back to life.
Now, the Roughnecks have had a different issue. Over the past two-three weeks its business as usual until the 3rd and 4th quarters. Defensively, this team has struggled (weeks 7 & week 8) to keep teams out of the secondary or the end zone. They seem to “tire out” in the later portion of the game letting teams come back or run away with a win.
Game Recap
The Roughnecks came apart, late in the game, once again to fall to the Panthers. Michigan left Houston with a 30 -18 win and clinched a spot in the Playoffs.
Houston started the game off on a pretty positive foot. Stalling Michingans’ game opening drive not allowing them a single positive yard, resulting in a quick 3-and-out. They would fire back with their own drive, 10 plays for 79 yards – resulting in a field goal.
Houston kept it close, down by two at halftime (14-12) but let it slip away again. On paper they should have won the second half (if not the game). However, the two turnovers and big plays were Houston’s demise. To be specific, an 88-yard punt return, an interception, and a fumble. The Roughnecks late game mistakes would cost them the win and a playoff spot.
Game Stats
Like I said, Houston won the game on paper.
Firstly, Jalan McClendon tallied 30 completions on 50 attempts (which is too many passes), a completion percentage of 60%, and two touchdowns.
Secondly, the run game was on the edge of what is actually effective. Running backs gained 92 yards, split between Zaquandre White and Lorenzo Lingard. Neither were able to find the end zone.
Lastly, the receiving stats: 316 total yards. Nine different receivers attempted passes, and seven had completions. It’s hard to Believe Houston lost with stats like those.
Also, time of possession was poor. While Michigan had the ball for 25:28 Houston had it for nearly 10 more minutes (34:32). However, a stat that we can discern from that is how productive those 10 extra minutes were. Meaning, it doesn’t matter if you have the ball more if you can’t do anything with it.
What’s Next
They say a team with nothing to lose is the most dangerous is cliche, but that’s exactly what Houston is right now. Being eliminated from the playoffs with two weeks left to play sucks, but really takes the pressure off them.
With the playoffs out of the picture the focus can shift elsewhere. But where? First, execution. Houston can really take the time to iron out the details on how things get done and how effective they can be. That goes for any side of the ball, offense, defense, special team, coaching, anything.
Next, they have the opportunity to see who else can step up and make plays for them. Give one of the other guys sitting on the bench a chance to see what they have during a game.
Who’s Next
The Houston Roughnecks will take on arguably one of the best teams in the league, the D.C. Defenders. This week 9 matchup is sure to be a true mystery as DC has already clinched a spot in the playoffs. As for Houston they were eliminated with their week 8 loss to the Panthers.
The Defenders should be aiming to solidify the top spot in the XFL Conference, eyeing home field advantage. While Houston is looking to bounce back after 2 heart breaking/season ending losses.
Kick will take place on Sunday, May 25th, 2025 at 4PM EDT at TDECU Stadium in Houston Texas.
Final Thoughts
In the week 8 Shakedown I talked about how this half of the Roughnecks schedule was going to be the real test. Which it has been. Luckily for them there is no more pressure, no more expectations. The only thing I need to see from this team is improvement. Show the fans that you can start and finish a game without crumbling in the second half. More importantly let the guys go out and play the game they love. Get creative with the play calling, take advantage of the double forward pass rule, and be aggressive. Houston has nothing to lose for the next two weeks, so get back to playing the game of football and have fun.
