Finding a bright spot among the Houston Texans' offense is admittedly difficult after a 14-9 defeat at the hands of the Los Angeles Rams. It was a great game to watch for those who enjoy sloppy offenses and dominating defensive play. Quarterback C.J. Stroud appears to be making up for his incredible rookie season by playing the part of an inexperienced starter. One who didn't make the simple plays and turned the ball over in a big spot. There simply isn't an excuse for the incredibly poor level of play from the Houston quarterback.
With that said, the offensive line does need to improve its protection, and looking at improving the receiver group should be considered. One offseason move that has aged well was the signing of veteran back Nick Chubb. With Joe Mixon's status remaining a mystery, the franchise opted to bring in an experienced starter who could help set the tone. Chubb showed he was up to the task in a solid Week 1 debut.
Texans' Lone Offensive Bright Spot Was the Surprising Production from Veteran Nick Chubb
Chubb didn't jump off the screen or do anything spectacular, but put up 60 rushing yards, averaging well over four yards per carry, providing a much-needed positive in a sea of frustrations. What made Chubb's performance so exciting is considering what this means moving forward.
If Stroud plays to his capabilities and the offense is clicking, the Texans might have stumbled into a great situation. Even if Mixon isn't able to come back until deep into the season, you have a proven option that appears to have turned back the clock.
When returning to the Browns last season, there were questions about whether that same gear was there to break runs or the ability to fight through contact. Sunday's performance answered this question with Chubb putting together a strong day with very little help.
The defense had no reason to fear Stroud and has an incredibly strong defensive line that is known for getting after the quarterback and frustrating rushers. It is great to see the strong start, understanding that the road isn't getting any easier next week. Chubb will be tested with going against a Tampa defense that just held Bijan Robinson to less than three yards per carry and is well set up to stop the run with Vita Vea in the middle of the defense.
With this in mind, it was a great sign to get the run game going early and provide the Texans with a level of faith that Chubb can be a solid option throughout the 2025 season. Even if Mixon is able to return, Houston would have a two-headed monster that would take a bit of the pressure off a struggling C.J. Stroud.
For Chubb, this is a great opportunity to play in a weak AFC South with a franchise badly in need of veteran stability. So often Chubb has been doubted and found ways to defy expectations throughout his career, it seems that the back is walking this familiar path and giving Houston fans hope that the run game will be one of the few consistencies throughout the 2025 season.