Up next for the Indianapolis Colts is their second–and final–matchup of the regular season with the Houston Texans.
Following back-to-back wins the Colts are now 4-3 on the year. Houston, meanwhile, suffered a Week 7 loss to Green Bay, putting them at 5-2 on the year.
It wasn’t all that long ago that the Texans were sitting at 4-1 on the season while the Colts were 2-3.
With Houston having the early head-to-head win over the Colts, along with the better current AFC South record, this game on Sunday in regards to the division race is about as close to a must-win as one can get in Week 8.
In Week 1 when these teams last met, Houston left Indianapolis with a 29-27 win. Overall, it was an efficient day for CJ Stroud but the game was controlled on the ground by Joe Mixon and the Texans’ run game that totaled 213 rushing yards.
The Colts offense, meanwhile, was very boom or bust, either generating big plays or short possessions that resulted in quick punts. That coupled with defensive issues against the run led to a massive time of possession and play discrepancy, that undoubtedly carried a big impact in a game decided by only two points.
As divisional opponents, these two teams are quite familiar with each other. However, let’s take a look at the Texans’ players that you need to know for this Week 8 matchup–the players who have made the biggest impact this season.
Rushing leader: Joe Mixon (5.2 yards per carry)
Receiving leader: Stefon Diggs (415 receiving yards)
*Nico Collins has 567 receiving yards but will miss this game on IR.
PFF’s highest graded pass-blocker: OT Laremy Tunsil
PFF’s highest graded run-blocker: C Juice Scruggs
Most QB pressures: Edge Will Anderson (29)
Most solo tackles: LB Henry To’oTo’o (34)
Lowest completion rate: CB Kamari Lassiter (37.5%)
Most PBUs: CB Derek Stingley and CB Jalen Pitre (4)
Most interceptions: S Calen Bullock (3)