Can the Texans’ Stellar Defense Carry a Struggling C.J. Stroud to Victory?

With C.J. Stroud struggling, the Texans’ elite defense can carry the team further than many expect. 

Tim Settle Jr. made his stance clear. The Houston Texans defensive tackle exuded confidence as he analyzed the potential matchup against Patrick Mahomes. Despite dealing with a high ankle sprain, Mahomes is set to lead the Kansas City Chiefs (13-1) against the Texans (9-5) this Saturday. Settle highlighted the vulnerabilities in the Chiefs’ offensive line, stating that Houston is well-prepared to “exploit those weaknesses.” 

“I hope he’s mobile enough because we’re coming into Arrowhead [Stadium],” Settle remarked this week. “Pat better make good decisions. I ain’t making no threats; I’m making promises.” 

Settle’s comments reflect the boldness that characterizes DeMeco Ryans’ defense, which has emerged as one of the top units in the league. While quarterback C.J. Stroud and the offensive side have faced inconsistencies throughout the season, the defensive prowess has ignited hopes for a deep playoff journey. 

Currently, the Texans boast the NFL’s No. 1 defense according to DVOA, a metric that evaluates team performance against league averages, as reported by FTN Data. They lead the league in completion rate allowed (57.7%), passer rating (79.6), and pass breakups (80). The team ranks second in takeaways (28), sacks (45), tackles for loss (90), and plays allowed per drive (5.4). Additionally, they stand third in yards allowed per play (4.9) and fourth in third-down efficiency (34.4% conversion rate allowed) and sack rate (8.7%). 

However, the defensive rush and coverage work in tandem, and Houston has proven to be formidable on the back end this season. 

Cornerback Derek Stingley Jr., recently named AFC Defensive Player of the Week, made history as the first player in franchise history to record at least five interceptions in consecutive seasons. He has achieved career highs in pass breakups (17), tackles (46), and tackles for loss (4). 

Stingley sealed the game with an interception in the Texans’ 20-12 win over the Miami Dolphins last Sunday. 

“His ball skills and ability to play the ball in the air are the best I’ve ever seen,” Stroud commented after the game. 

Rookie defensive backs Calen Bullock and Kamari Lassiter have also made significant contributions. Bullock leads all NFL rookies with five interceptions and is among only six rookie safeties since 2000 to achieve at least five interceptions and ten pass breakups in a single season. Meanwhile, Lassiter has been a consistent starter alongside Stingley and is one of three Texans with three or more interceptions this season. 

Lassiter, safety Eric Murray, and Stingley have allowed the second-, third-, and fourth-lowest completion percentages as nearest defenders this season, respectively (minimum 30 targets), according to Next Gen Stats. Opposing teams have only been able to target a wide-open receiver on 18.5% of their attempts against the Texans in 2024, the lowest rate in the league. Under pressure, Houston’s defense is allowing a mere 39.0% completion rate, which is on track to be the lowest since 2018, per NGS. This depth in the Texans secondary enables them to maintain high performance levels, even with the recent loss of nickel back Jalen Pitre, who has been placed on season-ending reserve. 

Despite Stroud’s numbers taking a dip this season, he remains a potential game-changer as the season progresses. He has shown the ability to perform in critical moments, which he demonstrated during his rookie campaign. Having Stroud as a wildcard is advantageous for the Texans, especially with a defense capable of keeping games competitive. 

The Texans’ elite defense transforms the possibilities for the team, making them a formidable contender in any matchup.

Source