Houston Texans running back Dameon Pierce (31) runs with the ball as Cleveland Browns defensive end Sam Kamara (92) attempts to make a tackle on a kickoff during the first quarter at NRG Stadium. Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Texans RB Dameon Pierce has 98-yard TD on kickoff return

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 12/24/23

The Houston Texans need other offensive playmakers to step up without star rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, who was sidelined for the second straight week with a concussion.

Second-year running back Dameon Pierce is doing that.

Against the Cleveland Browns (9-5), Pierce returned a kickoff for a 98-yard TD, cutting the deficit to 14-7 with 11:51 in the second quarter.

DAMEON PIERCE 98-YARD KICK RETURN TOUCHDOWN. WOW.

: #CLEvsHOU on CBS
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/UIg1XAjsX3 pic.twitter.com/VWLQXPIhWv
— NFL (@NFL) December 24, 2023

Pierce — a former second-round pick out of Florida — has backtracked after he rushed for 939 yards in 13 games in his rookie season. In 11 games this season, the 23-year-old has rushed for 394 yards and two TDs on 134 carries. Perhaps the big play will help him regain confidence and build some momentum.

The Texans (8-6) are third in the AFC South and in the thick of the playoff hunt. Their matchup against the Browns is a must-win game. The New York Times simulator notes Houston's playoff chances will fall from 51 to 33 percent if it loses.

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