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Come Fan with UsWednesday, August 5, 2026

Ravens vs. Texans: Baltimore punt return pushes lead to 17-9 at half

Baltimore’s defense and special teams made big plays to make up for the team’s lackluster offense.

Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
James Dator
James Dator has been covering a wide range of sports for SB Nation for over a decade, with a special focus on the NFL.

The Houston Texans lead the Baltimore Ravens in every category except points on the scoreboard. Through two quarters on Sunday, the Ravens have leaned on their defense and special teams to jump out to a 17-9 lead.

Houston has 157 yards of offense to Baltimore's 65, but the team's inability to score holds it back. Quarterback Matt Schaub has thrown for 96 yards, including a costly interception that was returned for a touchdown by linebacker Daryl Smith.

Shortly before the end of the half, Tandon Doss struck for the Ravens with an 82-yard punt return for a touchdown. Houston had time to answer back, but the story remained the same as the Texans settled for a third field goal when the offense was unable to score.

Baltimore needs to find a way to move the ball on offense, because it’s unlikely the Ravens can lean on defense and special teams all game long. Without Ray Rice, the offense has just 14 rushing yards so far.

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