Unstoppable Mixon Drags Defender to the End Zone

HOUSTON (AP) — Joe Mixon evaded one defender and dragged a defensive back into the end zone with him on a 14-yard touchdown run in the highlight of yet another big game to help the Houston Texans beat the Indianapolis Colts 23-20 in a tightly contested matchup at NRG Stadium on Sunday.

The Texans, who were coming off a tough road loss in their previous game, bounced back in a big way on the strength of strong performances from Mixon and quarterback C.J. Stroud. Stroud, who has been one of the most impressive rookies in the league this season, got the Texans on the board first with a beautifully thrown touchdown pass to his favorite target, wide receiver Nico Collins, in the first quarter.

However, the Colts responded with a score of their own, as quarterback Gardner Minshew found tight end Jelani Woods for a 7-yard touchdown pass just a few minutes later. The two teams traded field goals throughout the second and third quarters, setting the stage for an exciting finish in the fourth.

That’s when Mixon took over, carrying the load on the ground and making several crucial plays in the open field to keep the Texans ahead. His 14-yard touchdown run, which put the Texans ahead 23-13 with just over 10 minutes left in the game, was arguably the play of the day.

The Colts made things interesting with a late touchdown pass from Minshew to wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., but the Texans held on to win it 23-20. The victory improved the Texans’ record to 6-2, while the Colts fell to 4-4 on the season.

When asked about his clutch performance, Mixon credited his teammates for their help in sealing the win. “I just made the most of the opportunities I had,” Mixon said. “My linemen did a great job blocking, and C.J. Stroud made some incredible throws to keep us ahead. It was a real team effort out there today.”

Stroud, who finished 22-of-30 for 275 yards and a touchdown, praised Mixon’s work ethic and impact on the team. “Joe is a true leader on our offense,” Stroud said. “He’s always working hard and making key plays when it counts. We’re lucky to have him on our team.”

The Texans will look to keep their momentum going next week when they hit the road to face the Tennessee Titans. The Colts, meanwhile, will return home to take on the New England Patriots.