C.J. Stroud played terribly, and the loss in New England is on him. Four first-half interceptions, including a pick-six, ended the Texans’ season. That reality can’t be avoided.

But this game also revealed why the margin was thinner than it appeared all year. New England adapted to the environment, protecting its quarterback with screens, slants, and defined throws. Houston largely did not. The Texans stuck with a middle-of-the-field passing plan despite missing Nico Collins and Dalton Schultz,

The Texans have quietly turned a weakness into a strength. With C.J. Stroud gaining more control at the line and the offense finally syncing against pressure, Houston is shredding blitzes. That sets up a fascinating matchup vs a Chiefs defense blitzing at a top-five rate but producing bottom-tier pressure.

Must-win for Houston. If the Texans stop the run and lean on quick passing with Davis Mills, their defense can take control vs a banged-up Jaguars offense.

Texans return from the bye with a chance to prove they can win against a top team. Monday’s matchup with Seattle will reveal plenty.

Nick Caley’s offense is finding its identity. After early struggles, the Texans are using tempo, RPOs, and misdirection to stay on schedule.

The Texans head to Baltimore seeking their first-ever win there, facing a banged-up Ravens team missing stars on both sides. With Lamar Jackson out, this feels like Houston’s best shot in years to climb back to 2-3 before the bye.

Four days after Houston’s shutout win, the real takeaways emerge: fresh faces, offensive growth, and momentum to build on.