Joe Mixon fight, explained: Why Texans RB punted football into stands, confronted Ravens before Christmas game

The Texans and Ravens kicked off the second of the NFL’s two games on Christmas with both teams locked into the playoffs. However, both are still playing for seeding, so tensions were high ahead of this pivotal game.

During pregame warmups, Ravens punter Jordan Stout was going through his normal routine. He miskicked one of his punts and it sailed to the left toward the Houston staff on the sideline. Nobody was hit, but that didn’t stop running back Joe Mixon from defending his coaches. 

Here’s what happened between Mixon and the Ravens ahead of kickoff on Christmas Day.

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Joe Mixon fight with Ravens, explained

Special teamers have a tough time during warm-ups. They have to warm up alongside their teammates, but while the position players only need about 10 yards of space to work with, special teamers typically need more room to stretch out their legs whether attempting kicks or punts. 

Because of this, punters usually kick the length of the field. They will set up near their teammates on that side of the field, and then kick toward the opponents with their rival special teamers doing the same.

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Baltimore punter Jordan Stout was practicing punts, to see how the ball moved in NRG Stadium. One of Stout’s pregame punts sailed to the left and nearly hit some Texans staffers. While they didn’t react other than covering their heads, Houston running back Joe Mixon took issue.

Mixon caught the punt after it bounced a second time. His frustration boiled over, and he kicked the ball into the stands. Mixon then charged toward the Ravens complaining about the errant punt. He and Baltimore backup quarterback Josh Johnson had to be separated by several people. Quarterback C.J. Stroud helped to pull Mixon back and eventually tempers settled. 

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It will be interesting to see if any of the pregame festivities boil over into the game, but it’s safe to say Joe Mixon is feeling no holiday cheer toward the Ravens.