Is Week 1 the Houston Texans’ most important game?
By Jacob Burns
A matchup against the Indianapolis Colts to start the season may go on to tell the whole story for Houston in 2022.
How does the old saying go? Patience is a virtue. Well in the NFL, if there’s one thing you don’t get much of, it’s patience. Coaches, general managers, and players seem to be getting less and less time to turn franchises around. This will be no different for the Houston Texans.
Quarterback Davis Mills and general manager Nick Caserio are entering what could be a crucial second year with the Texans. Even new head coach Lovie Smith may be facing instant pressure, considering Houston fired former coach David Culley after just one season.
After finishing last season with a 4-13 record, all eyes were on Houston to see what improvements would be made. The team made out well at the 2022 NFL Draft, earning a B+ grade according to NFL.com’s Dan Parr.
Four of Houston’s first six picks will likely have the chance to be day one difference makers. Derek Stingley Jr., Kenyon Green, Jalen Pitre, and Dameon Pierce all have a clear route of starting Week 1.
Texans: Can the team start the season with a win?
Pair the new young talent with the return of talented left tackle Laremy Tunsil from injury, along with another year of development for Mills, and the Texans should be expected to improve this season.
Just how much improvement though? We won’t have to wait long to find out.
Week 1 in Houston against the Indianapolis Colts is a perfect test for the Texans. The AFC South favorites have a new quarterback in Matt Ryan, and haven’t dropped a game to Houston since 2019.
It’s time for the Texans to step up in 2022.
While they likely won’t be favored to win, the Texans have a real shot to upset Indy. Ryan will be playing his first game in Indy’s new system. Along with that, Ryan’s connection with his new receivers may still be a work in progress. The Colts also will be starting the season on the road, all things which favor the Texans in the season opener at NRG Stadium.
We may know right away how the ’22 season will go for the Texans based off this one game. A win or even a close game against a division rival who’s expected to compete for a playoff spot will go a long way for Houston’s confidence.
Next. Texans secondary can be competitive in first season together. dark
A repeat of last season’s beatdowns however, and Houston could be on yet another path of disappointment.