The Colts vs Texans has become a pretty fierce rivalry in the AFC. However, it is one sided, as the Colts vs Texans games usually go for Indianapolis. Houston gets closer every year to getting over the hump, but Indianapolis often stops them cold. They did it three weeks ago, but it didn’t look like they would do it this time. However, this Colts vs Texans game followed the usual script, as the Texans came up short of making a big statement, and the Colts just kept on winning.
Despite being down 17-0 early on, the Colts scored 35 of the next 38 points to win, 35-27. Indianapolis started as poorly as possible, as Peyton Manning threw two interceptions in the first half, and Houston dominated time of possession. Once again, the Texans allowed themselves to dream that they had taken the next step, and gotten back in the playoff hunt.
But the Colts vs Texans game ended like all the other make-or-break games for Houston. Like they did against the Colts three weeks ago, and against the Titans last Monday night, the Texans just could not close the deal. Manning and the Colts’ defense finally woke up, and took command in the second half.
One key stretch all but decided the outcome in the fourth quarter. Manning threw his third touchdown pass of the day to Dallas Clark with nine minutes left, giving the Colts the lead for good. On the very next play for Houston, Clint Session picked off Matt Schaub for a decisive score. Indianapolis soon got another touchdown to finish things off for good, completing yet another fourth quarter comeback.
The Colts vs Texans score was yet another near miss for Houston, and yet another escape for Indianapolis. The Texans looked like they would finally be playoff contenders, but three straight gut-wrenching losses have likely knocked them out. This one was worse than most, as they were so perfect in the first 20 minutes, and so outmatched in the final 20.
Indianapolis is now the first team to clinch a division title and a playoff berth, after the Jaguars lost to San Francisco. With a relatively easy schedule, and a big lead for home field in the playoffs, the Colts can coast the rest of the way.
Of course, if they get any closer to finishing 16-0, it may not be so easy to rest Manning and the gang for the playoffs. Besides, they have gotten into so many close scrapes lately, they may be pushing their luck heading into January.
But after the latest Colts vs Texans heartbreak, Houston only wishes they had Indianapolis’s problems. Instead, they face a virtual elimination game against the Jaguars next week. The Colts will rest up and see if New Orleans can keep pace with them tomorrow night, against their old friends, the Patriots. After that, the equally red hot Titans come coming.
Sources
Associated Press- “Colts remain perfect with win over Houston”
Sporting News- “Colts continue their hold over Texans”
