Texans vs. Chiefs: Three positives to build on

Sep 13, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Nate Washington (85) makes a catch as Kansas City Chiefs strong safety Eric Berry (29) defends during the first half at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

We heard all offseason how the Indianapolis Colts were going to be the new super team after signing over the hill running back Frank Gore and former Texan Andre Johnson.

The fact is all the Colts did was put an old, injury prone power back behind a poor, finesse offensive line. Then they replaced an old receiver, Reggie Wayne (37), with a slightly less old Johnson (34).

Of course, Gore was ineffective and got hurt. Then Johnson managed only 24 yards on four catches. Hey, I know, it was their first game right? Well it was also the first game for Texans new receivers Nate Washington and Cecil Shorts III, who both outperformed AJ in his first game with Indy.

Washington had 105 yards on six reception and Shorts added 57 yards on four catches. Not only did the two free agent pick ups do well, but the young man who took over as the top receiver was even better.

DeAndre Hopkins finished the night with nine catches for 98 yards and two touchdowns. He also added a two-point conversion by connecting with quarterback Ryan Mallett in the fourth quarter.

In short, the Texans wide receiver group looked great without Andre Johnson, who looked average for the Colts in their loss to the Buffalo Bills. Agin Harris spoke of the impact from this group;

"I’ve said it for a while and will say it again, I have no concern about this wide receiver corps. Yes, Hopkins had a key drop on third down, which was a near aberration and Cecil Shorts and Nate Washington each had a drop. But, overall, Hopkins, Nate, Cecil and Keith Mumphery all made plays in the passing game and will continue to in the future. Washington’s first catch as a Texan was a gem down the Chiefs sideline over the top of Tamba Hali. Boy, Nate Washington made some big-time catches throughout the day. At this point, he is the best value of any off-season signing/acquisition."

Next: The running game looked good