The Houston Texans came out swinging in Week 15, and they didn’t waste any time reminding the NFL that they’re not just in the playoff hunt-they’re here to make noise. Facing off against the Cardinals, Houston opened the game with 17 unanswered points, delivering a first-quarter clinic that combined creativity, explosiveness, and a little bit of chaos.
The highlight? A red-zone touchdown that had even seasoned analysts doing a double take.
With the ball at the one-yard line, Houston dialed up a direct snap to rookie running back Woody Marks-while quarterback C.J. Stroud stood under center as a decoy.
The Cardinals defense hesitated just long enough, and the Texans’ offensive line bulldozed forward, collapsing the interior and pushing Arizona defenders back into the end zone. Marks didn’t wait for the pile to settle-he went airborne, launching himself over the top and breaking the plane with authority.
It was the kind of play that sparks sideline celebrations and gets the league buzzing. Even NFL insiders couldn’t help but chime in online, stunned by the ingenuity and execution.
Marks’ touchdown was more than just six points-it was a statement. Houston is willing to get creative, take risks, and lean into the moment. And with the way they’ve been rolling lately, that mindset is paying off.
Coming into the game riding a five-game winning streak, the Texans are one of the hottest teams in the league. They’re firmly in the mix for the AFC South crown, and performances like this show why. They’re not just winning-they’re dictating the pace.
Stroud, who’s been delivering all season long, connected early with Nico Collins on a 57-yard bomb that set the tone. It was a perfectly timed deep shot, with Collins getting behind the secondary and Stroud dropping it in stride. That score gave Houston an early lead and showcased the kind of vertical threat this offense can bring when it’s clicking.
Kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn added a 30-yard field goal to keep the pressure on, but it was the Marks touchdown that really underscored Houston’s aggressive mentality.
At this point in the game, Marks had six carries for 16 yards and the one touchdown, plus a reception for eight yards. Modest numbers on paper, but his impact on that drive was undeniable.
With just over 10 minutes left in the first half, the Texans held a 17-7 lead-and more importantly, they had all the momentum. This is a team playing with confidence, creativity, and a clear sense of purpose. If they keep executing like this, the rest of the AFC better keep their heads on a swivel.