LONDON — Call it a false start.
The Houston Texans ’ departure for London to face the Jacksonville Jaguars was delayed when the team had to switch planes before embarking on their overnight flight, coach DeMeco Ryans said Friday.
“Whatever can go wrong will go wrong,” Ryans joked to start his news conference after practice in northwest London.
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Houston arrived early Friday for their AFC South matchup against the Jaguars (4-1), who played in London last week and remained in town to complete their doubleheader.
The Texans (1-4) were asked for comment on the cause of the delay.
“We had a little issue with our plane, so we had change planes there before we left Houston,” Ryans said. “We got the right plane - everybody is safe and well, and that’s all that matters.”
Ryans said that despite the hiccup, players had no issues adjusting.
“I like the way our guys have responded to everything,” the coach said.
Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud said the delay worked in their favor.
“We’ve been able to bond and talk and crack jokes and do all the things that teammates do on the road trips, but a little longer,” he said. “But I think it’s great for bonding and I think we’re handling it good, and practice was really good today.”
The Texans held practice at the Harrow School, one of the oldest schools in Britain whose most famous alumnus is Winston Churchill. He spent his high school years at Harrow before entering politics and leading Britain through World War II as prime minister.
The hilly location offers a clear view of Wembley.
‘No pressure’ on Harrison
Marvin Harrison Jr. is set to make his Texans debut just days after joining Houston in a trade with Arizona.
Ryans said there’s “no pressure” on the wide receiver.
“Marvin just has to come, do what he’s asked to do within the scheme and go play fast, play physical, have some fun, make some plays,” Ryans said.
Stroud said his former Ohio State teammate looks as “quick as ever, fast, stronger. He likes our offense a lot, likes where he can see himself fit in. I thought he absorbed the playbook as best he can. I think he’ll do a great job. He’s a smart kid, so he should be good.”
Henry To’oTo’o expected to play
Houston linebacker Henry’s To’oTo’o (shoulder) was a full participant again Friday and “we’re expecting to see him out there on Sunday,” Ryans said.
To’oTo’o’s official game status is “questionable,” as is safety Ja’Marcus Ingram (elbow) after practicing fully Friday.
Three players were previously ruled out and didn’t travel with the team: WR Tank Dell (knee), RB David Montgomery (groin) and S Jalen Pitre (shoulder).
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