The Houston Texans delivered a statement victory on Sunday, defeating the Indianapolis Colts 20-16 in a crucial AFC South matchup that reshuffled the division standings. With their fourth consecutive win, the Texans have climbed within striking distance of their division rivals, while the Colts' recent struggles continue to mount.
A Defensive Masterclass in Indianapolis
Houston's top-ranked defense proved why they're the league's elite unit, forcing a critical turnover on downs with just 1:45 remaining to seal the victory. The Colts, who came into the game averaging over 20 points per contest, were held well below their season average—marking the first time this season they've failed to reach the 20-point threshold.
The defensive showcase was particularly impressive given that
C.J. Stroud was making his first appearance in four weeks after clearing the concussion protocol. Despite the rust, Stroud efficiently managed the game, completing 22 of 35 passes for 276 yards with one interception while improving to a perfect 3-0 at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Texans' Offensive Balance Proves the Difference
Houston's offense struck early with a 23-yard field goal on their opening drive, then built momentum through the second half.
Nick Chubb punched in a 4-yard touchdown run to give the Texans a 10-6 lead, while
Nico Collins delivered the game-winning score—a 7-yard touchdown run with 12:38 remaining in the fourth quarter.
Collins was a standout performer, hauling in five receptions for 98 yards and proving to be a reliable target for Stroud's return. The Texans' balanced attack kept Indianapolis's defense off-balance throughout the afternoon.
Colts' Offensive Struggles Compound Division Woes
Indianapolis entered the game as the NFL's leading rushing team, but
Jonathan Taylor was held to just 85 yards on 21 carries—failing to score for only the fifth time this season. Quarterback
Daniel Jones, playing through a lower leg injury, completed 14 of 27 passes for 201 yards and two touchdowns but couldn't generate enough offensive firepower when it mattered most.
The Colts' inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities proved costly.
Alec Pierce led the receiving corps with four receptions for 79 yards, but Indianapolis could only muster a 42-yard field goal in the fourth quarter as their offense stalled in critical moments.
AFC South Implications
With this victory, the Texans improved to 7-5 and now sit just one game behind the Colts (8-4) in the AFC South standings. The division race has tightened considerably, with Jacksonville also in the mix at 8-4. The Colts' third loss in their last four games has derailed what appeared to be a promising season, while Houston's four-game winning streak suggests the Texans are hitting their stride at precisely the right time.
Looking Ahead
The Texans will travel to Kansas City next Sunday to face the defending Super Bowl champions, while the Colts head to Jacksonville for a divisional showdown with the Jaguars. Both teams face critical tests that could reshape the AFC South landscape heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
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1.
Houston Texans vs. Indianapolis Colts Live Score and Stats2.
Houston Texans Highlights vs. Indianapolis Colts3.
Colts Insider shares what he learned from the loss to the Texans4.
Texans 20-16 Colts Game Recap
Sources
1. Houston Texans vs. Indianapolis Colts Live Score and Stats
2. Houston Texans Highlights vs. Indianapolis Colts - YouTube
3. Colts Insider shares what he learned from the loss to the Texans
4. Texans 20-16 Colts (1 Dec, 2025) Game Recap - - ESPN (SG)
