For those wondering about Jalen Pitre’s progression playing the nickel, let the second drive of Saturday’s game serve as the answer.
The Houston Texans took an early 7-0 lead over the New York Giants in the first quarter as Pitre intercepted a pass intended for tight end Theo Johnson for a 6-yard touchdown. The pick marks the first defensive turnover of Houston’s preseason and the first defensive touchdown.
Expect more of that with a ferocious pass rush headlined by Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr.
TURN US UP 5️⃣
📺: ABC13 pic.twitter.com/wUK9HiYGM7
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) August 17, 2024
After failing to convert on fourth down, New York was pinned at its own 6-yard line. Defensive end Derek Barnett worked upfield to pressure Daniel Jones, who tried to throw it away and evade the safety.
Instead, it turned into six points for the home team in their first outing at
NRG Stadium since the wild-card round victory against the Browns.
Pitre, a 2022 second-round pick out of Baylor, began his career at the STAR position under Dave Aranda. He won Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 while helping the Bears with their first Big 12 title since 2014.
With Houston, he’s shifted back closer to the line of scrimmage. After totaling five interceptions during this rookie season, Pitre regressed under the new formation led by DeMeco Ryans.
FEEL THE HYPE ‼️ pic.twitter.com/OYe5Xoleta
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) August 17, 2024
Back at his natural spot, perhaps the next turnover will count toward his stats. The Texans will close out the preseason next Saturday against the Los Angeles Rams at noon.
Houston will receive the ball to begin the second half.
