The 2023-2024 season was a pivotal one for the Houston Texans, as the team demonstrated significant growth and resilience under the leadership of head coach DeMeco Ryans. While the season had its ups and downs, the Texans delivered some standout performances that left fans hopeful for the future. Here, we look back at the top five best performances that defined the Texansโ season.
1. Week 3: Texans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
In one of the most thrilling games of the season, the Texans faced off against the Jacksonville Jaguars in a heated divisional matchup. Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud showed why he was worth the high draft pick, throwing for over 300 yards and four touchdowns without a single interception. The Texans’ defense also played a crucial role, forcing three turnovers that swung momentum in Houstonโs favor. The 37-27 victory was a statement win that showcased the team’s potential.
ย 2. Week 7: Texans vs. New Orleans Saints
The Texans’ Week 7 clash with the New Orleans Saints was a defensive masterclass. Houston’s defense, led by standout performances from Jalen Pitre and Derek Stingley Jr., held the Saints to just 10 points. Pitre’s pick-six in the second quarter was a game-changing moment that electrified the home crowd. On offense, Stroud connected with Nico Collins for a pair of touchdowns, sealing a 24-10 victory that demonstrated the teamโs ability to win on both sides of the ball.
ย 3. Week 10: Texans vs. Cincinnati Bengals
In what was arguably the most complete team performance of the season, the Texans went on the road and stunned the Cincinnati Bengals. The game featured a balanced offensive attack, with Stroud passing for 280 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Dameon Pierce added 120 rushing yards and a score. The Texans’ defense also came up big, sacking Joe Burrow five times and limiting the Bengals to just 17 points in a dominant 31-17 win.
4. Week 13: Texans vs. Denver Broncos
The Texans faced a tough test in Week 13 against a resurgent Denver Broncos team. In a game that came down to the wire, the Texansโ offense was firing on all cylinders. Stroud and wide receiver Tank Dell were the stars, connecting on two deep touchdown passes that kept the Texans in the game. The defense once again delivered in clutch moments, with a late interception by linebacker Christian Harris securing a 27-24 victory and keeping Houstonโs playoff hopes alive.
5. Week 16: Texans vs. Tennessee Titans
With playoff implications on the line, the Texans rose to the occasion in their Week 16 matchup against the Tennessee Titans. Stroud delivered one of his best performances of the season, throwing for 350 yards and three touchdowns, including a game-winning pass to Dalton Schultz in the final minute. The 34-31 victory not only swept the season series against their division rivals but also positioned the Texans for a potential wildcard spot.
The 2023-2024 season was a testament to the Houston Texans’ growth as a team. With a promising young quarterback in C.J. Stroud, a stout defense, and a coaching staff that knows how to get the best out of its players, the future looks bright for the Texans. These top five performances highlight the potential of a team on the rise, giving fans plenty of reasons to be excited for what lies ahead.