You can’t talk about the Texans success without first mentioning quarterback CJ Stroud. The second-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft has been incredible. He has thrown for 2,270 yards and 14 touchdowns with just one interception. His completion percentage could be better, but that will improve with time. The most important thing is that he is not turning the ball over and avoiding mistakes normally seen from rookie quarterbacks.
While Stroud’s talent has led to his success, he has been supported by a promising young receiving corps. Nico Collins (631 YDS, 4 TD) has led the way, with Tank Dell (454 YDS, 4 RD) turning into a great second option. They are joined by a veteran tight end in Dalton Schultz (350 YDS, 4 TD). The trio didn’t take long to gel with Stroud, and it has led to a lot of success for the offense.
On top of the team’s playmakers, the Texans offensive line is also improved. While they haven’t been great when running the ball, they have done a great job protecting CJ Stroud. He has been sacked 18 times, which is below most other starting quarterbacks. Combine that extra time in the pocket with Stroud’s impressive decision making, and you have a recipe for a lot of points.
The Texans defense has been solid thanks to a pair of rookies in linebacker Henry To’oTo’o and defensive end Will Anderson Jr. To’oTo’o leads the team in tackles with 53. Anderson’s stats don’t jump off the page, but he is consistently generating pressure and breaking up big plays. The unit is far from perfect, but they are good enough to put their talented offense in a position to win.
One last reason we like the Texans chances to make a run is their schedule. They face the Cardinals, Broncos, Jets, Titans (twice), and Colts over the next nine weeks. The Texans will also have one more game against the Jags, giving them a chance at a season sweep and ownership of the tiebreaker.
