During Sunday’s game, fans couldn’t help but notice a noticeable stain on the pants of Detroit Lions linebacker James Houston.
The incident quickly went viral on social media, as it appeared Houston had soiled himself while playing against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.
The situation unfolded during a key moment in the first half, when the Lions were facing 3rd-and-10 at their own 35-yard line, trailing 10-7 with over nine minutes remaining. Texans quarterback CJ Stroud handed the ball off to Joe Mixon, who was immediately tackled by Houston and several other Lions defenders.
On the replay of the tackle, viewers could spot a large yellowish-brown stain on the back of Houston’s pants, raising questions about whether he had an unfortunate accident. The mishap seemed to foreshadow a tough rest of the half for the Lions.
Detroit’s next four possessions ended poorly—two interceptions and two punts—while the Texans took advantage, increasing their lead to 23-7 by halftime.
The moment quickly became a viral talking point on social media, with fans and commentators alike discussing the visible stain.
While the game continued, it’s safe to say that the incident was a curious and memorable part of the Lions’ struggle during that first half
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