The Houston Texans improved to 2–4 after beating the Tennessee Titans and Jacksonville Jaguars in consecutive weeks. The recent turnaround is crucial for Houston’s season after a sluggish 0-4 start. The latest win was particularly important because Jacksonville entered the game with a 4–1 record.
After the Texans reportedly offered Stroud an extension worth more than $50 million annually, Stroud chose to bet on himself. Through six games, he has thrown for 1,714 yards, nine touchdowns and just one interception. His 312-yard, three-touchdown performance in the 34-31 win over Jacksonville earned him AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors.
Pro Football Focus’ rankings reflect Stroud’s progress after Week 6. Stroud climbed seven places to No. 6 in PFF’s Week 7 quarterback rankings, published October 21. He owns an 85.7 overall PFF grade, fifth among 35 qualified quarterbacks. His 14 big-time throws and three turnover-worthy plays through six games highlight the balance between aggressive passing and ball security.
Houston has a chance to build on their recent wins, but they cannot afford another slow start. Stroud’s ability to spread the ball around, combined with the arrival of Marvin Harrison Jr., gives the offense more options. If he maintains this level of play, Houston could turn its early-season struggles into a competitive playoff push.
Texans’ Offense and Defense Still Have Questions to Answer
Wide receiver Jaylin Noel has emerged as a deep threat with 334 receiving yards, while Nico Collins remains a key target. Marvin Harrison Jr. adds another talented receiver to the mix, and Tank Dell is expected to return against the New York Giants in Week 7.
Running back Woody Marks has recorded 205 rushing yards on 58 carries, averaging 3.5 yards per attempt through six games. His workload has increased with David Montgomery sidelined by a groin injury, but Houston still needs more efficient production on the ground to take pressure off Stroud.
Houston’s pass rush remains a strength, with 18 sacks through six games, ranking third in the league. Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter give the Texans a dangerous edge-rushing combination. However, surrendering 31 points against Jacksonville exposed problems in finishing drives and containing opposing playmakers. The defense must improve its consistency to help Houston compete against stronger teams.
A third straight win would give Houston a 3–4 record and valuable momentum heading into the second half of the season. With Stroud playing confidently and Dell nearing his return, the Texans have reasons for optimism.
More on the Houston Texans
- Will the Texans Trade Wyatt Teller? His First Season in Houston Hasn’t Gone to Plan
- Texans Stock Watch: Jaylin Noel’s Career-Best Performance Puts Houston’s Rising Receiver on the Map
- Dan Pompei Says Will Anderson Jr. Can’t Carry the Texans’ Struggling Defense on His Own
- Texans Get Tank Dell Back as Receivers Become a Strength
