If the season ended today and the draft started tomorrow, the Houston Texans would have the No. 1 overall pick.
Houston’s 1-8-1 record following their 23-10 loss to Washington at NRG Stadium in Week 11 helps them “improve” their lead over the Las Vegas Raiders for the right to pick the first player in the 2023 draft.
As things currently stand, this is the only silver lining for Houston fans that have had to watch the development of second year quarterback Davis Mills stall and the defense of coach Lovie Smith look like one of the worst in the league.
Mills’ production was low going 19-of-33 for 169 yards and two interceptions. Meanwhile Alabama quarterback Bryce Young the day before was highly productive despite a conservative game plan from offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien.
Young completed 18 of 24 passes for 221 yards and two touchdowns. The game featured plenty of time for Young to pass in the pocket with the relative low intensity of Austin Peay’s defense,. However, it was reassuring to watch the young signal caller not force anything despite a game that represented an opportunity to potentially stat-pad.
Young could offer the Texans stability at football’s most important position and a dynamic passer as the league transitions towards the offensive side. The fact Houston will likely have their choice between the two may serve as a major selling point should general manager Nick Caserio decide to move on from Smith after one season.