The Houston Texans just made one of the most improbable turnarounds in NFL history. They have reeled off four straight wins after a tough start to their season, including three losses. This magical run, defined by dramatic twist and turn endings, has turned the team into unlikely playoff contenders. The Texans are now only a game behind the Indianapolis Colts and Jacksonville Jaguars in the AFC South. This provides them an amazing chance to become the first team since the playoff expansion in 2020 to reach the postseason after going 0-3 to start the season.
Each of the Texans’ past four wins have been by one possession. The defense has proven to be the bedrock of this success, repeatedly coming up with the big play that has sealed victories. With an average of just 16.5 points allowed per game, the Texans currently boast the best defense in the league. They’re the only team this season to allow 20 points or less more times than any other team. This great accomplishment is a testament to their powerful defensive prowess.
A huge part of this defensive supremacy is the pair of wild-eyed ends. Stars like Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter can be found. Anderson, who has recorded 5.5 sacks this season, ranks fourth in the league, while Hunter’s 6.0 sacks place him tied for second. Both players shined in fourth-quarter clutch scenarios. Since Week 3, they’re a big reason the Texans have only allowed 2.7 points per game during that critical stretch.
In addition to their impressive point prevention, the Texans have demonstrated their ability to stifle opposing offenses late in games. Since Week 3, Los Angeles has been fourth in QB rating allowed—29.6. Fourth Quarter Passing Defense They further rank eighth-lowest at 38.7 for passing yards allowed in fourth quarters. This defensive dominance has been aided by the fact that they’ve led the league in both sacks and interceptions during those clutch moments.
Will Anderson Jr. emphasized the mindset that drives their late-game performance:
“We get on the field, it’s time to close out the game.” – Will Anderson Jr.
The Texans’ focus on staying disciplined and avoiding penalties has been crucial to their success this year. Defensive end Danielle Hunter noted that earlier in the season, minor errors had cost them games, but now they focus on making fewer mistakes:
“That’s the biggest thing. At the beginning of the season, there was one play where one guy would be out of position… Football is a game of inches.” – Danielle Hunter
Offensively, rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud has been making headlines every week as he’s played a vital role in the Texans’ resurgence. Stroud remains grounded about the importance of teamwork and consistency over individual heroics:
“It’s never just the last drive or last play.” – C.J. Stroud
In their most recent victory against the Buffalo Bills it was star safety Calen Bullock who was at the center of the spotlight. He created three turnovers, including 2 interceptions and a fumble recovery. This type of counteraggression on defense has been the hallmark of the Texans’ style since this winning streak began.
While they’re still climbing the ladder towards the top of the AFC South, the Texans have clearly made themselves dangerous playoff contenders. With their current form and defensive strategy, they could potentially rewrite history by making a playoff appearance after such a rocky start.
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