Photo credit, Jenna Watson/Indystar
Joe Mixon’s nine-yard run on third and three capped the game as the Texans ran out the clock.
On Sunday afternoon at Lucas Oil Stadium, the Texans extended its road win streak to nine after downing the Colts in thrilling fashion, 29-27.
Mixon’s nine-yard run helped the Texans (1-0) extend its road win streak to nine games. He was a load for the Colts defense, carrying the ball 30 times for 159 yards and a touchdown.
Still, the Colts (0-1) would stay strong, matching several of Houston’s big plays. It seemed it would come down to who had the last big play.
Anthony Richardson led Indianapolis on 9-of-12 for 212 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception. He also added 56 ground yards on six carries and a touchdown. His considerable play ability kept the Colts within striking distance, but the defense had no answer for the bend and didn’t break Houston’s offense.
Houston’s kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn added three long-range field goals, a 50-yarder, and two from 51 yards, which kept the pressure on.
CJ Stroud continues to be a factor for the Texans, completing 24-of-32 passes for 232 yards and two touchdowns. His main target, Nico Collins, finished with six catches for 117 yards. Tank Dell caught six balls for 33 yards, but two of the receptions were for scores.
Houston held a slight edge in stats, with 414 yards of total offense and 26 first downs. The Colts piled up 303 and 14 first downs. However, the Texans nearly double Indianapolis in total plays, 76-43.