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The Houston Texans desperately needed a win, and they made sure there was little doubt about the outcome. Houston beat the Tennessee Titans 26-3 on the road, improving to 1-4 and ending its winless start to the season.
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However, C.J. Stroud’s postgame comments revealed another reason for his excitement. Houston had just given him a familiar weapon, one he already knows how to work with from their days together at Ohio State. The Texans’ victory was followed by news that Houston had traded for Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.
“I think he brings a dynamic, you know, playmaker. Somebody who runs great routes, can catch really any ball, And I’m just super excited to get with him,” Stroud said.
“I loved him in college. He’s probably the hardest worker I’ve ever been around in my life. And then just, you know, who he is off the field, He’s a great dude. You know, a quiet guy, but definitely, you know, you feel his presence.”
Their college connection gives the Texans a reason to believe this partnership can work quickly. During the 2022 season, Harrison caught 77 passes for 1,263 yards and 14 touchdowns with Stroud throwing him the ball.
The Texans have needed another dependable playmaker alongside Nico Collins. Injuries and inconsistent production have made it harder for Houston to give Stroud enough reliable options in the passing game.
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Texans Show Signs of Life in First Win of 2026
Stroud delivered one of his strongest performances of the season, completing 76.5% of his passes and finishing with 261 passing yards, a passing touchdown and a rushing score. He also went 7-for-8 on third down, helping Houston sustain drives when it mattered.
Adding Harrison could give the quarterback another option when defenses focus on Collins. The defense was just as important as Stroud’s performance. Houston held Tennessee to only 187 total yards and three points, forced two turnovers and recorded four sacks.
Will Anderson Jr. led the pass rush with three sacks, while Danielle Hunter added another. The defensive performance was especially encouraging because head coach DeMeco Ryans took over play-calling duties on that side of the ball ahead of the game. Houston’s first victory was not just about one player or one unit. Fairbairn converted four field goals to help establish a halftime lead, the defense limited Tennessee’s opportunities, and the offense delivered two second-half touchdowns to put the game away.
The Texans outgained the Titans 329-187 and controlled the contest after halftime. That balance is what Ryans will want to see again as Houston prepares for Jacksonville.
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More on the Houston Texans
- Marvin Harrison Jr. Trade Ratchets Up Scrutiny of Cardinals’ Offense
- Will Anderson Jr. Took Over in Nashville, and 3 Other Takeaways From Texans’ Win Over Titans
- Texans Make Blockbuster Trade Decision, Pairing C.J. Stroud With Former Ohio State Teammate
- 4 Make or Break Players for Texans in Week 5 vs. Titans
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This story was originally published October 11, 2026 at 10:29 PM.