BREAKING: The Houston Texans have just completed the best defensive season in franchise history, securing a stunning victory over the Indianapolis Colts. With a final record of 12-5, the Texans are primed to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers in the playoffs next Monday night.
Houston’s relentless defense, spearheaded by stars Will Anderson Jr., Danielle Hunter, and Derek Stingley, allowed only 17.3 points and 277.2 yards per game this season, setting franchise records in both categories. “Our defense did a really nice job throughout the entire year,” said coach DeMeco Ryans. “Limiting points, specifically, that’s what makes you a good defense.”
This remarkable performance comes as the Texans overcame a midseason hurdle, rallying after losing quarterback C.J. Stroud to a concussion for four games and rebounding from an 0-3 start to secure a playoff spot for the third consecutive year.
Hunter finished third in the NFL with 15 sacks, achieving a total of 54 tackles and three forced fumbles. Anderson, a standout rookie, tied for fourth in the league with 20 tackles for loss and recorded 12 sacks. Stingley, an All-Pro last season, matched the team lead with four interceptions, including his first career interception return for a touchdown.
The Texans’ defense amassed 19 interceptions, ranking third in the NFL and marking the third-highest total in franchise history. Yet, despite these accomplishments, Ryans expressed concerns about recent defensive lapses, particularly big plays allowed. “We didn’t end the year well defensively,” he noted. “We’ve got to do a much better job if we want to advance and play longer in the playoffs.”
Anderson echoed his coach’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for consistency. “We have to execute better if we hope to advance in the playoffs,” he stated. “Coach DeMeco talked about being consistent and being dependable.”
In addition to their defensive strength, the Texans benefited from the stellar performance of kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn, who made six field goals against the Colts, tying a franchise record for most field goals in a game. He finished the season with 44 field goals, tying the NFL record for most in a single season. His kick from 51 yards on Sunday was his 51st field goal from beyond 50 yards, placing him third among active kickers.
Despite a successful game, the Texans struggled in the red zone, scoring touchdowns on only 46.3% of their opportunities, ranking 30th in the NFL. Defensive tackle Tommy Togiai capped off the Colts game by returning a fumble 17 yards for a touchdown, becoming the third defensive tackle in franchise history to achieve this feat.
As the Texans prepare to face the Steelers, they aim to eliminate recent defensive inconsistencies and build on the strong offensive performance displayed in the first half against Indianapolis. The upcoming playoff game could determine how far this record-setting defense will carry the Texans in their postseason journey.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Texans gear up for their playoff challenge against the Steelers!