In 2018, Indianapolis Colts wideout T.Y. Hilton called Houston his home —deservingly so, he routinely plays well in H-Town.
Hilton, since entering the NFL in 2012, has dominated the Texans, particularly when playing at NRG Stadium. Entering Week 12, Hilton had compiled 87 receptions for 1,604 yards and 10 touchdowns in 16 career contests against the Texans.
In his eight games at NRG Stadium, Hilton had racked up 46 receptions for 1,018 yards and seven touchdowns before Week 12’s matchup. His quarterbacks — Andrew Luck, Jacoby Brissett and Matt Hasselbeck — combined for a 129.8 passer rating when targeting him in Houston.
Thursday night’s Texans 20-17 win was not a continuation of dominant performances for Hilton. He finished with three receptions for 18 yards. But, it was one for Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, as he pitched in six catches for 94 yards and a pair of scores.
Hopkins’ performance reminded the national audience of who calls Houston home. It’s not a clown mask wearing Hilton, who resides in Indianapolis.
“You know, when someone says this is their home, they’re insulting me. I think that T.Y.’s (Hilton) a great player. That’s my boy, but I take things like that personal,” said Hopkins after the win.
The Texans effectively shutdown a receiver with career performances in Houston. Hilton’s performance was his second-worst in a game against the Texans.
The Colts struggled to match the Texans’ big plays on Thursday, in large part due to Hilton’s inability to get open. Houston played the speed merchant pass-catcher tight, with cornerback Gareon Conley seeing most of the time against him.
“He’s played some amazing games here, but today it wasn’t their day,” said Hopkins.
While Hilton travels back to Indiana, Hopkins and Co. will get to celebrate the establishment of their homefield advantage, which resides in the limits of Harris County. Earning the sole possession of the top of the AFC South is just a bonus.