One of the reasons that the Texans' 27-0 road loss in the third game of the season to the New England Patriots quickly got out of hand was a glaring lack of ball security on special teams.
Specifically, since-released cornerback Charles James fumbled a kickoff that led to a Patriots touchdown in the first half. Then, rookie kick returner Tyler Ervin fumbled a kickoff in the third quarter to set up another Patriots touchdown.
A fourth-round draft pick from San Jose State, Ervin had a shaky game against the Oakland Raiders. During the 27-14 playoff win, Ervin fumbled two punt returns and he recovered one with teammate Eddie Pleasant securing the other loose football.