The time the Houston Texans were on “Hard Knocks” is mentioned the same way grandparents recall the Great Depression or medieval accounts recall the bubonic plague. The HBO documentary series on an NFL training camp is a white elephant no sane team focused on football wants.
However, the Texans will be making another appearance on “Hard Knocks” this year despite not being one of the chosen teams.
After HBO finished their series on the Dallas Cowboys, the NFL announced the Indianapolis Colts would become the first team featured on the in-season version of “Hard Knocks,” which debuts Nov. 17 on HBO and its sundry streaming services.
The Texans were already on “Hard Knocks” this year when they played the Dallas Cowboys Aug. 21 in the second preseason game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Houston’s takeaway defense was on full display as they strip-sacked quarterback Garrett Gilbert and forced Ben DiNucci to throw three interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown by safety Lonnie Johnson. The Texans prevailed 20-14.
The Colts play the Texans in Week 6 on Oct. 17 and then Week 13 on Dec. 5, just before Indianapolis’ bye week. That means the Texans will appear for a total of three times on “Hard Knocks” this year despite not being one of the featured teams.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are the only team who will be able to match the Texans. Jacksonville faced the Cowboys in the preseason finale Aug. 29 at AT&T Stadium with Trevor Lawrence flashing his immense potential. Jacksonville gets their first shot against the Colts in Week 10 on Nov. 14 and then later finishes up the season with Indianapolis on Jan. 9.
If the Texans are able win ballgames, it will give NFL fans a glimpse into why David Culley’s team is formidable without any of the unfettered access that can be a distraction at times.
