In Week 7 we addressed an unusual situation where the Detroit Lions’ defense intentionally allowed the Atlanta Falcons’ Todd Gurley to score near the goal line late in the game. Gurley was aware of the ploy but couldn’t hit the brakes quickly enough. Moments later, the Lions capitalized with a game-winning drive. This is a very specialized tactic that doesn’t arise often and is typically used as a desperate measure.
One of those instances occurred yesterday in Houston as the Texans were threatening to take the lead from the Colts late in the game. While the game’s ending will be remembered for the Deshaun Watson fumble, there were some fascinating decisions that preceded that conclusion.