In a game that was called ugly at best, the Jacksonville Jaguars were able to end up in the win column against a divisional foe that has had their number in recent contests.
Player Grades / Standouts
From the Jaguars:
- Josh Hines-Allen (DE) got one of the top defensive grades vs. Houston, especially for his role in pressuring C.J. Stroud and helping force the game-sealing turnover.
- Travon Walker (DE) also graded well, contributing to the pass rush and containment.
- Jourdan Lewis (CB) and Antonio Johnson (S) were among Jacksonville’s best in pass defense. Johnson got the interception at the end of the game, which proved decisive.
From the Texans:
- Nico Collins (WR) had a notable game: a 50-yard touchdown catch was one of the few big offensive plays.
- On the flip side, penalties, drops, and turnovers (especially at bad moments) hurt Houston. For example, Collins’ fumble (deep in Jaguars territory) was a big momentum shift.
- C.J. Stroud (QB): He had moments of good play (e.g., setting up the tie with the long TD), but two interceptions, one especially late (tipped or pressured into), were costly. He also faced pressure from the Jaguars’ pass rush.
Key Moments & Turning Points
- Late TD by Travis Etienne: With 1:48 remaining, Travis Etienne scored a 10-yard rushing touchdown to give Jacksonville the lead.
- Huge 46-yard play to set that up: Just before the winning touchdown, Trevor Lawrence connected with Brian Thomas Jr. for a 46-yard pass under pressure — a big moment coming off earlier drops by Thomas.
- Turnover sealed it: Houston drove late in the game, but C.J. Stroud threw an interception (after a tip) to Antonio Johnson, ending the Texans’ chance.
Statistical & Performance Highlights
- Houston’s Offensive Struggles:
- Stroud finished with 204 passing yards, 1 TD, and 2 interceptions.
- The Texans are now 0-3 this season, and haven’t scored more than 20 points in any game so far.
- Red zone performance was poor: multiple opportunities were wasted, including turnovers.
- Jacksonville’s Defense:
- Forced three turnovers for the third straight game.
- Pass rush worked well, especially from Josh Hines-Allen who pressured the QB and played a key role on the strip/defensive tip for the final interception.
- Brian Thomas Jr.: Mixed day — he dropped several passes, which drew criticism, but made the big play with that 46-yard reception.
What This Means
- For the Jaguars: They improve to 2-1, snapping their home losing streak vs. Houston (their first home win over Houston since 2017).
- For the Texans: They slide to 0-3. Close losses, poor red zone efficiency, turnovers, and inconsistency are defining their early season.