Texans Win Two in Row

HOUSTON — The Houston Texans won two in a row for the first time since their debut three years ago, beating the Oakland Raiders, 30-17, on Sunday.

The Texans forced Raider quarterback Kerry Collins into five turnovers, including each of his last four drives, and the offense capitalized to turn a tie game into a solid win.

“Our team showed what we are capable of doing,” defensive end Gary Walker said.

At 36 games, or 2 1/4 seasons, the Texans (2-2) needed longer than any expansion team to win consecutive games.

They were 0 for 9 before Sunday’s strong showing, which followed a last-second victory at Kansas City.

And strong it was: Houston scored its most points, created its most turnovers and responded well to a loud, disruptive crowd of 70,741 that was its second-biggest.”This was one we had to get,” said Carr, who was 14 for 23 passing for 228 yards with a touchdown and no turnovers.

Oakland (2-2) came in on a two-game winning streak.

But four straight turnovers after being tied at 17 showed why the Raiders lost their 11th straight on the road. They also were hurt by 13 penalties.