From 0-3 to AFC Contenders: How the Texans Reignited Their Season
Three weeks into the season, the Houston Texans looked like a team searching for answers. Sitting at 0-3, with an offense that couldn’t get out of its own way, the early returns under new offensive coordinator Nick Caley were far from encouraging.
The numbers told the story: just 12.6 points per game, a single touchdown per contest, a meager 267 total yards, and a third-down conversion rate stuck at 23.7%. For a team with postseason aspirations, it felt like the wheels were coming off before the engine had even warmed up.
And yet, the defense was quietly holding its own-allowing just 17 points per game over that stretch. That kind of defensive effort usually gives you a chance to win. But when the offense is sputtering like it was, even a solid defensive showing can’t keep the ship afloat.
A New Voice, A Rocky Start
The Texans’ offensive struggles weren’t entirely unexpected given the offseason shakeup. After last year’s playoff run, Houston made the bold decision to move on from offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans and his staff wanted a fresh voice to help guide rising star quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Enter Nick Caley, formerly the Rams’ tight ends coach and passing-game coordinator.
Caley brought a new approach to the offense, but early results were underwhelming. Fans were frustrated.
Pundits were questioning the hire. And there were whispers-fair or not-that Ryans’ personnel decisions had let the offense drift off course.
But here’s the thing about the NFL: it’s a long season. And sometimes, teams just need a little time to find their rhythm.
A Texas-Sized Turnaround
Since September 28, the Texans have flipped the script. They’ve gone 7-2 over their last nine games and are firmly in the AFC playoff picture with five games left to play. The offense, once a liability, has become a legitimate threat.
Take a look at the turnaround: 25 points per game, 2.4 touchdowns, 346.5 total yards, and a much-improved 38.4% on third downs. That’s not just better-it’s the kind of production that keeps you in games and gives your defense room to breathe.
Caley deserves his share of credit. He’s adjusted on the fly, found ways to simplify things for Stroud, and leaned into the strengths of his young playmakers.
Youth Movement Paying Off
One of the biggest shifts has come in the backfield. Veteran Nick Chubb, once expected to carry the load, has seen his role reduced in favor of rookie Woody Marks.
The move has paid off. Marks has brought fresh legs and energy to the ground game, and his ability to get downhill quickly has added a new dimension to the offense.
Out wide, rookie receiver Jayden Higgins is starting to carve out a real role. He’s not just filling space-he’s creating separation, moving the chains, and becoming a red zone weapon. His growth has been one of the more underrated storylines in Houston’s resurgence.
That said, the red zone remains a work in progress. The Texans are converting just 43.59% of their red zone trips into touchdowns-ranking 31st in the league.
But there’s a silver lining: they’re getting there often enough to stay competitive, averaging 3.3 red zone trips per game (17th in the NFL). It’s not perfect, but it’s a sign of an offense that’s moving the ball and creating opportunities.
Next Stop: Arrowhead
Now comes the real test.
Sunday night, under the lights at Arrowhead Stadium, the Texans face a Kansas City defense that’s been one of the league’s best-ninth in total defense, seventh in scoring (19.3 points per game). If Houston wants to prove they’ve truly turned the corner, this is the stage to do it.
It’s not just about keeping up with Patrick Mahomes. It’s about executing a smart, balanced game plan.
It’s about showing that the offensive progress isn’t a fluke. And it’s about proving that this team-once left for dead at 0-3-belongs in the postseason conversation.
A win in Kansas City would be their second against the Mahomes-led Chiefs and would mark their eighth of the season. More importantly, it would be a statement: the Texans are no longer just a promising team-they’re a dangerous one.
Let’s see if they’re ready to rise to the moment.