Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins is one of the top targets for Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, but the veteran has been off to a slow start on Saturday.
The Texans have jumped out to a 14-3 lead more than halfway through the second quarter. Collins is trying to play a big role in what could be a key win on the road.
What’s Happened To Texans WR Nico Collins?
In the first half, Collins has only been targeted once, and that’s for a 15-yard catch. But Stroud has connected with Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel for long touchdown passes in the first quarter, putting the Texans up early 14-0.
Chargers kicker Cameron Dicker then hit a field goal after Stroud threw an interception, making it 14-3.
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Collins hopes to get open more as the game rolls along.
According to the PFSN NFL WR Impact metrics, Collins has an impact score of 82.6 and grades out to B-. For the season entering Saturday’s game, Collins has 68 catches for 1,060 yards and six touchdown receptions. Also, there is no sign that Collins is injured at all at this point.
While the Texans did jump out early, they have not been able to add onto their lead. Stroud has thrown two interceptions, including one that put the Chargers in a position to score again, potentially, but Los Angeles failed to capitalize on the opportunity.
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The Texans came into this game against Los Angeles riding a seven-game winning streak. Last week, Houston managed to get past the Las Vegas Raiders at NRG Stadium in Houston. So, the Texans knew that coming into the Saturday matchup, they really needed to secure a victory.
Meanwhile, the Texans have had some players hurt throughout the first half. Their health, both along the offensive line and defensive front, might be something worth watching as the game rolls along.
For Collins, in order to help the Texans secure the victory, he’s going to have to get open downfield for Stroud. The Texans’ offense clicked early yet has shown an inability to get back into the end zone.
The Texans’ defense, though, has been causing trouble for Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert. Houston head coach DeMeco Ryans hopes that his offense can get back on track with Collins playing a big role in the second half. Collins was a third-round draft pick out of Michigan by the Texans in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Editor’s Note: This is a breaking news story and will be updated throughout the day as more information becomes available.
