Houston Texans running back David Johnson had a career-high 108 receiving yards in the club’s 27-20 loss to the Indianapolis Colts in Week 15 at Lucas Oil Stadium.
The receiving explosion was a surprise after the former 2016 All-Pro running back had been pedestrian in the run game and the passing game.
According to Texans offensive coordinator Tim Kelly, the team didn’t alter their game plan or emphasize Johnson’s involvement against the Colts.
“I don’t think he did anything differently,” Kelly said. “I don’t think we did anything differently. I think the ball just found him.”
Kelly pointed out that Johnson was able to synchronize with quarterback Deshaun Watson and become an available target after the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback would scramble to buy more time downfield.
“Sometimes it takes a little bit of time for that to happen and when the ball found him he was able to go out there and make some huge plays, particularly on two third downs where there were some scrambles where Deshaun found him and he’s dangerous with the ball in his hands,” said Kelly. “He did a good job making those plays that came his way.”
For Johnson to continue to get opportunities in the final two games, Kelly says that the running back will have to continue to seek ways to keep Houston’s drives alive.
Said Kelly: “Even if it’s just a four- or five-yard route from the backfield going and keeping us on schedule. That’s what he provides us, is a guy who’s done that for a long time in this league and can go out and win those favorable matchups with linebackers.”
The Texans take on the Cincinnati Bengals Sunday at 12:00 p.m. CT at NRG Stadium. It will be another chance for Johnson to showcase what he could have provided to the Texans’ offense earlier in the year.
