Escaping the worst record in the league in 2022 in the final week, the Texans mainly saw 2023 to build in anticipation of future years. New coach, new quarterback, new philosophy. A rejuvenated Texans team is entering the 2023 season with no other ambition than to learn and progress. But thanks to a mayonnaise that set very quickly, here is Houston champion of its division. Enough to consider even higher?
How did they get there?
After three seasons in the bottom of the league without apparent sporting direction, the Texans have finally chosen a calm and intelligent construction. The first stone in the building was the appointment of DeMeco Ryans as head coach. The former 49ers defensive mastermind and former franchise player took charge of a young team and injected new momentum. Taking advantage of the presence of some promising young people, they then built through the draft with the 2nd and 3rd picks. An offensive leader in CJ Stroud and a defensive leader in Will Anderson.
Consistency and a dose of talent were enough to see results. Despite two inaugural defeats, the progress is evident and the promises are there. The rookie quarterback shines and makes his targets and Houston shine. Arriving thus at the bye week with a balanced record of 3-3.
Stroud's connection with Nico Collins and Tank Dell, another rookie, is obvious and doing damage. The launcher continues top-flight performances. The offense which was starving and boring in 2022 becomes attractive and productive in 2023. Despite some avoidable missteps against significantly weaker teams (Panthers and Jets), the Texans remain in the running for the playoffs. Despite the absence of their quarterback during December, they held on to offer themselves a final against the Colts. A match won thanks to an explosive and decisive Stroud-Collins duo.
The key player: CJ Stroud (QB)
Symbol of the metamorphosis of the Texans during the offseason, CJ Stroud gives nightmares to all Panthers supporters who preferred Bryce Young in the draft. The former quarterback has become the metronome of the Houston offense. His connection with Nico Collins in particular was particularly lethal throughout the season. With the highlight being the last match of the season where the duo won the playoffs.
For a rookie quarterback, Stroud has demonstrated astonishing maturity. Limiting ball losses and going for several matches at the end of the match like a veteran of the league. In a conference where the defenses are formidable, Stroud's ability to sublimate himself will be essential to hope to gain the upper hand.
Why are they going to go through with it?
The recklessness of youth and the luck often given to beginners could well help Houston defy the odds. A carelessness that we find in the game of CJ Stroud. The quarterback demonstrated throughout the season that he was not afraid. He knows how to be decisive without rushing into it without thinking. His arm, his precision and his understanding with his targets must be taken very seriously by opponents.
Defensively, DeMeco Ryans has proven that he knows how to build formidable squads. With his young guard playmakershe will be on the lookout for the slightest opportunity to change a meeting.
Why won't they go?
Particularly young, the vast majority of the Texans squad is completely inexperienced at this level of the NFL calendar. Faced with the ogres accustomed to January games such as the Bills, Chiefs or Ravens, it is difficult to imagine that the lack of experience does not end up causing them a problem in a meeting with an uncertain outcome.
In the final third in pass protection (47 sacks conceded) and in the running game (96.9 yards per game), the level of the offensive line without several starters could quickly become prohibitive for any ambitions for success. Starting with the first duel against the terrible Myles Garrett and ZaDarius Smith who will quickly want to make life hell for the young Texan quarterback.
Injured players
Little spared throughout the season, the Texans showed tremendous resilience to win their division. Selected in the 1st round in 2022, starting guard Kenyon Green, affected, missed the entire season. Still on the line, tackle Tytus Howard, also a former 1st rounder, extended in July, missed the start of the season due to a broken hand before returning during the season. But at the end of November, a knee injury definitively ended his season, weakening Stroud's right side.
Revelation of the first part of the season, rookie Tank Dell, author of more than 700 yards and 7 touchdowns in 11 matches, saw his season cut short due to a fibula injury at the beginning of December. His chemistry with his quarterback was obvious and his explosiveness will be a real lack for the attack.
On defense, former 49ers Jimmie Ward who followed DeMeco Ryans to Houston injured his thigh on Christmas Eve. He could only return in a possible conference final.
Prognosis
Qualification was unexpected at the start of the season. Although deserved, it therefore mainly serves as a nice surprise. The Texans have a very young team and are above all there to learn. If their dynamic and the magic of the playoff matches could extend their fairy tale, the conference is too tough to dream big. For this year.
Wild Card defeat.
