UPDATE: The Houston Texans have just wrapped up the best defensive season in franchise history, clinching a 12-5 record with a decisive win over the Indianapolis Colts. As the team gears up for their playoff opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers on January 8, 2024, all eyes are on their record-setting defense.
Leading the charge, the Texans’ defense, spearheaded by stars Will Anderson Jr., Danielle Hunter, and Derek Stingley, has achieved remarkable feats this season. They held opponents to just 17.3 points and 277.2 yards per game, setting franchise records in both categories. Coach DeMeco Ryans praised their performance, stating, “Limiting points, specifically, that’s what makes you a good defense.”
Despite a rocky start to the season, including losing quarterback C.J. Stroud to a concussion for four games, the Texans bounced back from an 0-3 start to secure a playoff spot for the third consecutive year. Their defense has been a crucial factor in this turnaround.
Hunter, who finished third in the NFL with 15 sacks, also recorded 54 tackles and three forced fumbles this season. Anderson, the 2023 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year, matched his career high with 20 tackles for loss and achieved a personal best of 12 sacks. Stingley, an All-Pro from last season, continued to shine with four interceptions.
The Texans’ defense has also been impressive in creating turnovers, with 19 interceptions this season, tying for third in the NFL. However, Ryans acknowledged the need for improvement after allowing some explosive plays in recent games, including two long passing touchdowns against the Colts. “We didn’t end the year well defensively,” Ryans admitted. “We’ve got to do a much better job if we want to advance in the playoffs.”
Moreover, kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn has delivered consistently, setting a career high with six field goals in the Colts game, tying a franchise record. With 44 field goals this season, he is tied for the most in NFL history for a single season.
In a thrilling finish, defensive tackle Tommy Togiai returned a fumble for a touchdown, securing Houston’s ninth consecutive win, which ties the longest winning streak in franchise history. Despite these achievements, the Texans have struggled in the red zone, ranking 30th in the NFL with a touchdown rate of just 46.30%.
As the Texans prepare for their playoff clash, they will need to eliminate defensive lapses and build on their offensive first-half performance against the Colts. The stakes are high as they face the Steelers, aiming to continue their impressive run.
Fans are eager to see if the Texans can harness their record-breaking defense to make a deep playoff run. Stay tuned for more updates as the playoff action unfolds!
