Houston Texans Exceed Expectations, Competing for Playoff Spot

Heading into the 2023 season, many NFL observers and even some within the Texans’ organization believed that competing for a playoff spot was a far-fetched idea. After undergoing a years-long rebuild, the Texans were seen as a team that would contend for championships in the future, rather than in the present. However, the Texans have exceeded expectations and find themselves firmly in the AFC South title race with a 3-3 record through six weeks.

Defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins expressed the team’s mindset, stating, “There is no rebuild. There is no, ‘We’ve got time.’ No, it’s right now. We’re going to win games right now. We’re going to do everything we can to win championships for this organization right now.” This mentality has propelled the Texans to match their victory total from last season already.

Within the AFC South, the Texans pose a significant challenge to the division-leading Jacksonville Jaguars. The Tennessee Titans, currently in last place with a 2-4 record, are dealing with injuries and potential trade deadline discussions. The Indianapolis Colts, who rely on a strong run game and defensive front, have been hampered by the loss of their dual-threat rookie quarterback, Anthony Richardson, to season-ending shoulder surgery. Backup QB Gardner Minshew, while capable, has limitations that were exposed in their recent loss to the Jaguars.

One key advantage for the Texans is their fully healthy starting quarterback, C.J. Stroud, who has been playing exceptional football. As the No. 2 overall pick in the draft, Stroud was expected to become a franchise quarterback, but his rapid development has surprised many. Currently, Stroud ranks fourth in the NFL with 1,660 passing yards and has thrown just one interception, the fewest among quarterbacks with at least 200 dropbacks. He has been a top-10 quarterback in the league this season.

The Texans’ success cannot be attributed solely to Stroud, as the offense has also performed well. Ranked 11th in offensive DVOA (Defense-adjusted Value Over Average), the Texans have improved their pass protection, allowing Stroud to be sacked only twice in their past four games. The team’s pass-catchers have accumulated 1,666 receiving yards, ranking fourth in the league. Additionally, the Texans are 14th in scoring, averaging 22.5 points per game.

On the defensive side, new head coach DeMeco Ryans has made a significant impact. Despite missing cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. for several games, the Texans have allowed just four passing touchdowns, tied for first in the league. They also boast a 41.9% pressure rate, tied for second in the NFL. With a scoring defense of 18.8 points per game, the Texans sit ninth in the league. Their run defense, which was historically one of the worst last season, has improved to the league-average, ranked 16th with 108.5 rushing yards allowed per game.

However, one area of concern for the Texans is their run game. The offense was expected to rely heavily on the ground attack to relieve pressure on Stroud, but they have struggled to establish a consistent rushing attack. Running back Dameon Pierce, who had an impressive rookie season, has struggled this year, averaging just 46.8 rushing yards per game. As a team, the Texans have the 24th-ranked rushing attack in the league and have struggled in red-zone efficiency, ranking 27th in touchdown conversion.

Despite these flaws, the Texans find themselves in a position to contend for a playoff spot within their division. It is a significant accomplishment for a team that was not expected to succeed immediately. Head coach DeMeco Ryans emphasized the importance of focusing on one game at a time and handling business each week. With their current mindset and strong performances from key players like C.J. Stroud, the Texans have a legitimate chance to make a playoff push in 2023.