Prime Time Celebrations

This time it was the Texans fans celebrating around the national TV postgame prime time set.

So many Battle Red-wearing H-Town supporters made the trip to Arlington to cheer on their team. They were rewarded with a rousing 34-10 victory over the artists formerly known as America's Team.

Flexing and Pulling Away

Yes, the Cowboys were hurting. But it's not like the Texans have been the picture of health themselves. And this is the NFL, where anything can happen.

When Dallas cut the lead to 17-10, into the half, there was a bit of an uneasy feeling in the air. Would the Texans be able to flex their muscles and pull away after intermission?

They would.

Ka'imi Fairbairn hit a field goal that pushed the lead to 10. Derek Barnett's scoop and score would send the sideline and the Texans faithful into delirium. Joe Mixon's third TD of the night capped a 17-point second half outburst that was just what the doctor ordered.

This was far from a masterpiece but it was a much needed commanding victory to remove the sting of the last two losses, both in prime time.

Far From Perfect

It wasn't like the Texans had been playing horribly. Yes, the Jets game was a rough night. But the losses to Detroit and Green Bay were at the buzzer. Houston was right there in both of those and failed to execute in crunch time. The players and coaches knew they were close.

Monday night, the Texans took the drama right out of the script by holding the Cowboys scoreless after the break. This was the second half they'd been looking for. They just had to come to Arlington to find it.

The victory got the team moving forward again. The Colts won on Sunday, putting a little pressure on the night. And before you say that the series sweep takes the Colts out of AFC South contention... think of last year, when the Jags' meltdown enabled the Texans to catch and pass an 8-3 team to take the AFC South title.

Now the Titans invade NRG Stadium. And before you poo-poo a struggling team, remember that they have the number two defense in the NFL. Their offense won't create viral moments, but they know how to slow teams down.

It's another challenge, and on a short week. Back to the division and back to a typical noon start. Rest up.