Texans Week One Matchup - AFC South vs. AFC South
Football season is back and it’s only fitting for the first game to start with an epic clash between the Colts and Texans, two AFC South powerhouses. With Anthony Richardson set to return to the regular season for the Colts, let’s break down why this game might be the most underrated of Week One, and why it’s a must-watch. The Texans have been a team to watch since last year's performance, and with the Colts improved roster, both teams are looking at a strong season ahead. What’s better than starting the season with a division game?
The Texans are a formidable force and with new signings and draft prospects such as rookie Kamari Lassiter and former Bills wide receiver Stefon Diggs, the Texans are looking to make a deep playoff run. However, that won’t come easy. Anthony Richardson, the number four pick in the 2023 NFL Draft flashed potential last season but was injured after four games for the Colts. The Texans will have to apply pressure on him as in addition to his cannon of an arm, he can run, averaging 5.4 yards per carry last season. On the other side, C.J. Stroud, the number two pick in the 2023 NFL Draft is looking to build off his impressive offensive rookie of the year season, in which he went for 23 touchdowns with only five Interceptions. The two quarterbacks will provide a fresh rivalry in the AFC South, and with the Texans an under -2.5 favorite, the Colts will have to come out strong.
Let’s break down some of the key players in the Week One matchup. Starting with the Texans with their wide receiver trio, which is arguably one of the strongest receiving cores in the league. Nico Collins, the wide receiver stud, went for 1,287 yards in 2023, and he’ll be a formidable force in this opening game. On the other side, Tank Dell, another strong receiver, went for 709 yards in 2023, adding the new signing of Stefon Diggs and the trio is a truly scary bunch. Stefon Diggs went for 1,183 yards last season and has gone the past six seasons with over 1,000 logged yards. In other words, he’s consistent, and with his record, we can expect him to repeat that with the Texans.
Another big name coming to the Texans roster is Joe Mixon, who, with the Bengals, had 1,410 scrimmage yards during the 2023 season. The Texans’ offense is a scary force, yet the Colts aren’t without weapons. The Colts pass rush is efficient, with DeForest Buckner going for eight sacks and getting a Pro Bowl selection in 2023. If we add the rookie Laiatu Latu, Kwity Paye, and Tyquan Lewis then you have a defensive line and rush core that is truly frightening. Zaire Franklin is ranked number 100 among the top prospects in the 2024 class, has 179 knockouts in 2023, and should put up a great matchup with any offensive player. In fact, he broke the Colts’ single-season franchise record for tackles in a season, so he’ll be one to watch for sure.
Now, let’s talk defense. The Texans of course have the likes of Will Anderson Jr, last year’s Defensive Rookie of the Year, but with added depth with rookie cornerback Kamari Lassiter, expect hard coverage for the Texans defensive side. However, that’s not all the ones to watch this week, as Azeez Al-Shaair who logged 163 tackles last season will be giving Jonathan Taylor a run for his money. The Texans also acquired Minnesota’s Danielle Hunter, who racked in a staggering 16.5 sacks in 2023, giving strong defensive names to the already formidable side.
Richardson's main target, Michael Pittman Jr., is expected to put up a good performance, as the team's designated wide receiver one, as he clocked 1,152 yards last season. This will be a great game on both ends of the field as both teams look to capitalize on their new talents and progress gained last season. With both franchises on rising ends, this game will be one to watch and can give a solid glimpse into the potential preseason to the regular season transition with their newest players. With the Texans favored, I’ll take them to win this game. The Texans and Colts face off this Sunday, September 8th, and can be viewed on CBS.
