Game Recap
The Houston Roughnecks held on to get the 18-17 victory over the Memphis Showboats at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. The first half was a struggle with Anthony Brown under center. The offense seemed unable to gain traction and sustain drives. Even though they struggled to move the ball, Houston’s defense kept them in it, down by five points going into halftime. Because of that, the first adjustment was a Quarterback change.
Nolan Henderson started off well, leading Houston down the field with an 11 play, seven minute drive to find the end zone (9-11). Two plays into the Showboats next drive the defense would also find the end zone. Roughnecks safety, Leon O’Neal would intercept a pass and take it in for the score (15-11). The game would end on a Hail Mary pass completed to Showboats receiver K. Lassiter, and resulted in a fumbled lateral recovered by Houston.
What Was Working
Houston’s defense helped carry the team to victory for the second game in a row. Safety Leon O’Neal was a major component of how well the defense performed. He racked up 9 tackles, 1 TFL, and a 30-yard interception returned for a touchdown. Also, cornerback Keenen Isaac was able to create a turnover and break up passes in the secondary.
Meanwhile, the offense was actually working too (at least in the second half). 40 total yards through the air for the Roughnecks in the first half of play. Head Coach C.J. Johnson saw the struggle and made the correct adjustment by putting Nolan Henderson in. The result was an 80-yard passing game in the 3rd quarter alone. But more importantly, they were getting the ball into the hands of their play makers and moving the chains on a more consistent basis.
What Needs Improved
“The Shakedown” outlined some of the suggested improvements for this week 3 match-up.
Penalties again became an issue in the game and because of that, make us question their level of discipline. Even though both teams had nearly the same amount of penalties, Houston’s were more impactful. Offensive holding, false starts, and delay of games were all offensive penalties that can and should be avoided. The biggest came on a very important 4th and 15 (onside kick) attempt. Houston, ahead by one point, commits an illegal contact penalty giving the ‘Boats a first down and retaining possession.
The Roughnecks showed how well they can move the offense when everything is going right but catching still remains to be another issue. Again, (Justin) Hall and Keke Chism both had big drops on “easy” passes. Luckily for them they were still able to get the win but those type of mistakes will not be forgiven against better teams.
How To Stay Successful
Houston’s offensive line play was pretty good against Memphis, but to continue winning they need to stay aggressive and hungry. Consistency from that front line is where everything starts and if they win everything else can start to open up.
Off the back of that idea, the coaching staff should start figuring out how to get a run game established that doesn’t rely on the quarterback. Rushing for 82 yards solely from RBs is good, but again, may be less against a tougher team. Being one dimensional against teams that can exploit your defense is a recipe for embarrassment (i.e., Week 1 vs the Battlehawks).
Most importantly, Nolan Henderson did a great job of getting all of his weapons involved. The Roughnecks quarterback targeted seven different receivers throughout the game.
My Opinion
The Roughnecks have a pretty good offense and can move the ball under the right circumstances. Finding those opportunities starts with the quarterback. I think Nolan Henderson should be the starter moving forward until proven otherwise. He seems more comfortable in the pocket, can throw accurately on the run, and his ability to hit his targets with incoming pressure is better.
The pick up of WR Marcus Simms from the Michigan Panthers was very beneficial. The coaches did a great job of getting him involved in the offense early and often to help him get acclimated quickly. Additionally, T.J. Vasher is still a scary weapon they have sitting on the sideline. I do think they need to try and get him going in this offense.
Next Up
Next on the schedule is their conference rival Birmingham. The Roughnecks (1-2) will take on the Stallions (2-1) in week 4 on April 19th, 2025 in Houston’s TDECU Stadium. Kickoff is at 7:00 PM EST on FOX.
Houston will look to continue improving and show that they, too, can compete with the best. Overcoming the Stallions will be a big task, especially after the Stallions’ comeback win over Arlington. Birmingham plays as a well rounded team and moves the ball almost effortlessly downfield. Their weapons on offense will prove to be a lot to contend with for the Roughnecks defense.