Monday Night Football, Ravens Vs. Texans: Willis McGahee Gives Ravens 7-0 Lead

The Baltimore Ravens have opened up a 7-0 first-quarter lead on the Houston Texans thanks in large part to Houston linebacker Brian Cushing.

A defensive offside called on Cushing negated a third down opportunity for Houston’s beleaguered defense, and then Cushing was called for a pass interference when he grabbed the jersey of Ravens rookie tight end Dennis Pitta. That penalty set the Ravens up with first and goal from the one-yard line, and two plays later, Willis McGahee crashed in from the left side for the game’s first score.

Baltimore also got two lengthy receptions on the drive from running back Ray Rice (16 yards) and fullback Le’Ron McClain (17 yards), but may not have reached the promised land without the major assists from Cushing.

Houston takes over with just over three minutes remaining in the first quarter and looking to find some rhythm offensively. Since running back Arian Foster gained 16 yards on the first play from scrimmage, the Texans have gained just eight more yards, with Matt Schaub missing on all four of his pass attempts. Houston has gained just one first down to this point in the contest.