Texans Flex Their Super Bowl Pedigree, Dominate Browns in Opener

HOUSTON, TX — The Houston Texans, fresh off their Super Bowl triumph, began their title defense with a commanding 36-20 win over the Cleveland Browns. In a highly anticipated rematch of last season’s AFC Championship, the Texans once again proved their mettle, riding quarterback C.J. Stroud‘s brilliance and a stout defense to victory.

Game Recap

The Texans opened the scoring with a 26-yard field goal from Ka’imi Fairbairn, but the Browns responded in style. Quarterback Joe Milton III connected with tight end Cameron Latu for a 9-yard touchdown, giving Cleveland a 7-3 lead at the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter belonged to Houston. Stroud hit wide receiver Nico Collins on a 26-yard touchdown pass to retake the lead. Moments later, rookie tight end Cade Stover broke free for a 39-yard touchdown reception, showcasing his potential as a big-play threat. A late field goal by Fairbairn extended Houston’s lead to 20-7 at halftime.

In the third quarter, the Browns showed signs of life with Milton finding wide receiver Jerry Jeudy for a 24-yard touchdown, cutting the deficit to 23-14. However, Houston struck back in electrifying fashion as Stroud launched a 62-yard bomb to Tank Dell, silencing any hopes of a Cleveland comeback.

The dagger came in the fourth quarter when Stroud connected with Stefon Diggs for a breathtaking 90-yard touchdown. Despite a late touchdown pass from Milton to Latu, the Texans’ defense held firm to secure a comfortable victory.

Key Stats

C.J. Stroud delivered a stellar performance, completing 22 of 29 passes for 439 yards and four touchdowns, including his 90-yard strike to Diggs. Diggs led all receivers with 124 yards and a touchdown on four catches, while Tank Dell added 92 yards and a score on three receptions.

Joe Milton III threw for 323 yards and three touchdowns for the Browns but completed just 22 of 50 passes while tossing two interceptions. Cameron Latu was the bright spot for Cleveland’s offense, hauling in seven catches for 82 yards and two touchdowns.

Defensively, Houston’s pressure was relentless, led by Jalen Pitre and Derek Stingley Jr., each recording an interception. For Cleveland, linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah made an impact with five tackles and an interception.

Injuries

The Texans suffered a setback as running back Ty Chandler exited the game with broken ribs. Head coach Sean Nguyen confirmed Chandler will miss significant time. The Browns reported no injuries.

Up Next

The Texans (1-0) stay home for a divisional showdown against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 2. Meanwhile, the Browns (0-1) hit the road again to face the New York Jets.

This decisive win reinforces Houston’s status as a powerhouse in the AFC. “We’re still hungry,” Stroud said postgame. “One game at a time, but we know what we’re capable of.” Cleveland, however, is left searching for answers. “We didn’t execute, plain and simple,” Milton said. “We have to be better, and we will be.”