Notebook: Key Observations From Texans Playoff-Clinching Win Over Colts
The Houston Texans have clinched a playoff berth in the first year of the DeMeco Ryans era after a 23-19 win over the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday night, and it was an instant classic.
In a game that came down to the wire, Houston fought through adversity on multiple occasions, and it now has a chance at an AFC South title, should the Jacksonville Jaguars fall to the Tennessee Titans on Sunday.
Capping off a massively-successful regular season for the Texans, here are some key takeaways from their thrilling win over Indianapolis.
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1. C.J. Stroud's storybook rookie season continues.
Stroud has put together an incredible debut season in the NFL, leading the Texans to a 10-7 record and a postseason berth, and he was excellent again on Saturday night.
The Houston quarterback finished the night 20-of-26 through the air for 264 yards and two scores, and his calm demeanor in the midst of a nail-biting finish is a testament to what he is capable of not just in the upcoming postseason, but in the years ahead.
2. Nico Collins' monster day cannot be overstated.
The Texans' star wideout finished the game with nine receptions for 195 yards and a score, coming through time and time again for Stroud in big situations.
Outside of his 75-yard touchdown reception on Houston's first play from scrimmage on Saturday, he also provided a security blanket on a desperation heave from Stroud on the Texans' go-ahead drive in the fourth quarter, resulting in a key first down.
Houston has suffered through some injuries this season, but if Collins can stay healthy, his collaboration with Stroud could be deadly in the playoffs.
3. Speaking of security blankets, Dalton Schultz was a huge plus on Saturday.
Texans tight end Dalton Schultz didn't break the century mark in receiving like Collins did, but his five receptions for 42 yards were key in extending Houston drives throughout the night, especially in the fourth quarter.
A strong, sure-handed tight end can be a young quarterback's best friend, and Schultz has proven his value to this Texans organization in the midst of his one-year deal.
4. This turnaround in Houston has been nothing short of incredible, and it's not done yet.
If you want to know how important this game was for the Texans organization, look no further than head coach DeMeco Ryans' celebration on the sideline when the Colts turned the ball over on downs to essentially seal the game in Saturday's fourth quarter.
C.J. Stroud was visibly emotional after the win, and this young team (both in coaching and on-field talent) has proven to be one of the best stories in the NFL this season, and they still have some work to do beginning in the playoffs next week.
