Defensive grades from the Texans’ 20-17 win over the Colts

The Houston Texans defense earned their fair share of gold stars from their 20-17 win over the Indianapolis Colts Thursday night at NRG Stadium.

secondary

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(AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

With safeties Justin Reid and Mike Adams out with concussions and cornerbacks Bradley Roby and Lonnie Johnson both scratched with hamstring and ankle problems, it looked like it could be a long night for the Texans’ secondary. However, newly acquired cornerback Vernon Hargreaves made an instant impact with five tackles and a pass breakup. Cornerback Johnathan Joseph had a key pass breakup of a sure third down conversion catch by receiver T.Y. Hilton. Safety Tashaun Gipson also had a key pass breakup at the end of the game to halt a Colts comeback. Considering the unit was playing without two starters and two key contributors, the effort the Houston secondary gave was outstanding.

Grade: A