Texans Make Titans Work

Following the first game between Houston’s old team and its new one, the Tennessee Titans went out of their way to praise the expansion Texans.

Although Tennessee won Sunday’s game, 17-10, the Texans earned their opponents’ respect by showing that this could soon become an interesting rivalry.

Steve McNair threw for two touchdowns and Eddie George ran for 86 yards to help the Titans -- formerly the Houston Oilers -- defeat the team that succeeded them.

“People can criticize,” Tennessee defensive end Kevin Carter said, anticipating dismay at the close score. “But again, you have to capitalize on your chances. One thing people don’t realize is that Houston team has some really good players.”

The Texans (2-7) got within a touchdown when David Carr completed a 10-yard scoring pass to Jarrod Baxter with 3:05 left. Houston got the ball back, and the Titans (5-4) didn’t seal the victory until Lance Schulters intercepted Carr’s pass at the Tennessee 46 with 1:11 left.

“It was kind of scary there at the end,” Titan defensive tackle Henry Ford said.

It was the fourth consecutive victory for the Titans, who stayed tied with Indianapolis for first place in the AFC South almost in spite of themselves. They had trouble moving the ball against the Texans, who intercepted two of McNair’s passes, one in the end zone. Tennessee had only 251 total yards.

Tennessee, however, allowed Houston only 233 total yards and sacked Carr four times.