Late Surge Seals Victory
The Las Vegas Raiders defeated the Houston Texans 22-20 on Friday, August 21, at Reliant Stadium before an attendance of 69,765. The visitors overcame a 17-3 deficit after the first quarter to secure their first win of the season, improving their record to 1-1. Houston dropped to 0-2 following the loss.
The game featured a dramatic finish where both teams relied on rushing touchdowns to determine the outcome in the fourth quarter.
First-Half Dominance
Houston controlled the early stages of the contest, establishing a commanding lead in the first period. Woody Marks scored on a 20-yard run to open the scoring, followed by an 80-yard interception return for a touchdown by Wade Woodaz. Ka'imi Fairbairn added a 51-yard field goal to extend the home lead to 17-0.
In the second quarter, Matt Gay kicked a 52-yard field goal for Las Vegas, but Fairbairn responded with a 57-yard field goal to close the half with Houston leading 17-3. The Texans’ offense was led by Davis Mills, who completed 11 of 15 passes for 93 yards.
Woody Marks rushed for 37 yards on four carries and a touchdown, while Marlin Klein caught three passes for 31 yards.
