As Houston Texans fans prepare themselves to indulge into their Thanksgiving traditions, eating their favorite dishes, and enjoying family time, they have plenty to be thankful for on the gridiron. Their hometown club is first place in the AFC South with a 7-4 record. Here are four items Texans fans need to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.
4. rb carlos hyde
Hyde has reestablished his career after being traded to Houston for Martinas Rankin. Through the first 11 games, Hyde has rushed for 76.0 yards per game, his most since the 2016 season, and the Texans have benefited from his resurgence as they are tied with the Seattle Seahawks for the sixth-best rushing team in the league at 136.9 yards per game.
3. lt laremy tunsil
Tunsil has been heaven sent for the Texans offensive line and franchise quarterback, Deshaun Watson. Tunsil has only allowed two sacks this year, one of which happened against the New Orleans Saints after only being in Houston for a week. Pro Football Focus has Tunsil with a 77.5 grade, and he also has zero holding penalties. The former 2016 first-round pick has been pivotal in revamping an offensive line that was atrocious for the past two seasons. Tunsil has also helped rookies Tytus Howard and Max Scharping fit in at the pro level.
2. bill o’brien
The previous players wouldn’t be mentioned without Bill O’Brien making last-minute trades to bring in Hyde and Tunsil. Both of those key additions, along with Gareon Conley, Kenny Stills, and now Vernon Hargreaves, show that O’Brien constantly works to make Houston better even through the downfalls. Not always pretty, but who’s been better at making a bad situation better? Of the 32 NFL teams, there’s not many current head coaches that would be picked over O’Brien to lead a franchise. Be thankful he’s currently working to be better.
1. wr deandre hopkins
It’s tough not to have quarterback Deshaun Watson number one on the list, but for the Texans, Hopkins has been Mr. Constant. The ultimate team player and even better game closer, Hopkins has been nothing short of class and dominance since his time in Houston. Whether it’s been breaking records or setting examples of being a good son to an amazing mother, “Nuk” and his ability to capitalize and control his game on the field makes him the number one reason Texans fans should be thankful this season.
