NFL Divisional Round Action: Tempers Flare on Houston Texans’ Sideline
NFL divisional round action got off to a hot start on a chilly late afternoon in Kansas City, but the heat was mostly on the Houston Texans’ sideline as tempers flared in the early moments of the high-stakes game against the reigning back-to-back Super Bowl-champion Chiefs. Television cameras showed Texans defensive back Kris Boyd nearly shoving Houston special teams coach Frank Ross to the ground moments after the playoff game’s opening kick.
Cornerback Kris Boyd of the Houston Texans stands on the sideline during the national anthem before a game against the Baltimore Ravens at NRG Stadium December 25, 2024, in Houston.
The tension began when Texans kicker the ball to the Chiefs to start the game, and Chiefs returner Nikko Remigio fielded the kick and quickly broke through would-be Texans tacklers. Remigio soon hit the open field and raced toward the end zone, but Texans cornerback Kris Boyd eventually caught up to him and stripped the ball loose. However, the problem was that the Chiefs had already recovered the fumble.
Despite this, Boyd proceeded to celebrate the fumble by ripping off his helmet and sending it skittering toward the bench, only to realize the mistake and shove Ross on the sideline, earning himself an unsportsmanlike conduct flag. The incident marked a turbulent start to the game, and the Texans had to regroup to face a strong Chiefs offense.
The game ended with Kansas City leading 13-12 at halftime. The winner will await the outcome of Sunday’s other AFC divisional matchup between the Baltimore Ravens and Buffalo Bills.
