Instant analysis: Texans QB Deshaun Watson torches Falcons defense for 5 touchdowns

To call this week a bounce-back week for Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson would be a massive understatement as the Texans pounded the Atlanta Falcons 53-32 Sunday afternoon at NRG Stadium.

Watson was able to pick apart a poor Atlanta defense for 426 yards through the air. The Clemson product hung up five passing touchdowns on Atlanta, three going to speedster Will Fuller, and two for tight end Darren Fells.

Thanks to the offensive line, Watson had plenty of time to sit in the pocket and find his receivers downfield. He did scramble quite a bit today as well, rushing for 42 yards on four carries. One key reason for Watson’s success was a well-established run game early on in the match-up, as Carlos Hyde and Duke Johnson carved up the Falcons’ front line for a combined 119 yards and a touchdown, taking some pressure off number four.

And finally, coach Bill O’Brien did a good job of mixing up play calls and really giving Watson the opportunity to shine on the field. Of course, a lot of this afternoon’s success could be chalked up to a high-powered Texans offense going up against a very poor Atlanta defense. But nonetheless, it’s a tremendous confidence booster for Houston heading into Week 6 against Kansas City.