When most NFL fans think of the Houston Texans’ offense, they typically picture the sensational spirals of quarterback CJ Stroud. And while the reigning Rookie of the Year hasn’t skipped a beat so far in his second season, there’s much more to the 2024 Houston offense than meets the eye. Some key off-season moves have taken the pressure off the sophomore signal caller, as the Texans (4-1, 1st in the AFC South) have evolved into a little more ‘grounded’ team.
The Texans Have Displayed a More Balanced Attack In 2024
Joe Mixon Helps Give the Texans a Different Look
One of the biggest factors in the evolution of the offense has been the off-season acquisition, of Joe Mixon. The former Bengal, now 28, has proven that he still has a lot of gas left in the tank so far. Although limited due to injuries, his mere presence on the field keeps the defense honest.
Despite his checkered past in Cincinnati, Mixon seems to have found a home – and new life – as a Texan. His biggest performance so far came in Week 1 against the Indianapolis Colts. The eighth-year ball carrier rushed 30 times for 159 yards and a touchdown.
“I think Joe brings confidence,” said Head Coach Demeco Ryans earlier this season. “He brings confidence. He brings energy, a swagger, to our offense. The way he works at practice each and every day, guys feel that swagger they feel that confidence the energy that he brings and that means a lot when you’re handing the ball to a guy who is as confident as ever. It means a lot to the offensive line, it gives them the confidence to block a little, longer finish a little stronger and that’s just everybody around him feels the energy that he provides.”
“Seeing Joe [Mixon] play in this league for a while, I just always have admired Joe from afar,” Ryans continued. “Every time we went against him, I know how tough the matchup was so it’s just mutual respect. Seeing a guy who has done it and done it the right way. I just like backs who play physical, they play the game the right way, and that’s what Joe represents… He’s been a great fit, great addition to our team.”
As of Oct 9, Mixon is questionable to dress, but the Texans coaching staff has expressed their thought that he will be back in action on Sunday.
Houston is Proving it’s Not Just a ‘Finesse Team’
In the mix with Mixon are Cam Akers (a free agent signee) and holdovers Dameon Pierce and Dare Ogunbowale. Each has been in the rushing rotation in 2024. So, in some instances, it allows the Texans to use a ‘backfield-by-committee’ approach when needed. Out of the group, Akers is essentially considered the 1-2 punch with Mixon.
Make no mistake: Houston is still looking to run-and-gun with Stroud under center and a host of talented receivers. That’s never going to change. The team is currently ranked third overall in the NFL in passing offense. Meanwhile, they are third from the bottom in rushing.
However, the unit averages 4.0 yards per carry and has combined for three touchdowns. Couple that with a commanding Texans’ defense and some precision passing, and the team seems poised for a potential Super Bowl run in 2024.
Main Photo: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
