The Houston Texans are poised to dominate the AFC South this year after their strong performance in 2023, where they advanced to the divisional round of the playoffs. Prior to their 2023 division win, the Texans had not achieved this since the 2019 season. Since the division’s inception in 2002, the Texans have won the AFC South seven times, trailing the Indianapolis Colts, who have claimed the division title nine times.
Despite their recent success, the Texans face tough competition from improved teams in the division. While the Texans boast a strong roster on paper, they must deliver on the field to maintain their standing.
In the NFL, divisional opponents play each other twice a year, meaning the Texans will face the Colts, who are eager to close the gap in divisional victories. Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin spoke candidly on Chris Long’s podcast about his readiness for the 2024 season, particularly against Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Franklin expressed a desire to face Stroud again, noting past encounters where Stroud had made provocative comments. Although the Colts and Texans split their series last season, with each team winning on the other’s home turf, Franklin was unable to sack Stroud. Despite this, Stroud performed well, avoiding turnovers and keeping his team competitive.
As the NFL’s offseason progresses with rookie mini-camps and OTAs, tensions are rising, setting the stage for an exciting matchup between the Texans and Colts in 2024. This game will be particularly compelling with the return of Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, who missed much of his rookie season due to a shoulder injury.
