HOUSTON -- A few thoughts from the Houston Texans' 23-17 win over the Buffalo Bills at NRG Stadium.
What it means: As the Texans improved to 3-1, they showed an ability to recover from adversity. Heading into halftime, the Bills had begun to take control of the game. They only led 10-7, but Buffalo's running game was starting to move with backs Fred Jackson and C.J. Spiller, and Bills quarterback EJ Manuel had reined in his erratic play a bit. The second half started with an interception thrown by Texans quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, but then J.J. Watt struck. Watt's 80-yard interception return for a touchdown changed the game.
Stock Watch: Texans kicker Randy Bullock had a rough start to his career last season, but he showed growth during the season and has continued that trend this year. Against the Bills, Bullock hit field goals of 55 and 50 yards that kept the game just out of reach in the Texans' six-point win.
Chippiness reigns: Through three quarters the Texans had fewer penalties than the Bills, but they were of the more costly variety and sometimes either helped Bills drives stay alive or stalled their own. Houston had six penalties for 75 yards through three quarters while Buffalo had seven for 35 yards.
Game ball: For a while, Watt was the most interesting thing happening in this game. He hit Manuel six times in the first half and became an even bigger problem in the second half when he jumped up and intercepted one of Manuel's throws, returning it 80 yards for a touchdown while mildly high-stepping and waving to the crowd as he crossed into the end zone.
What’s next: The Texans hit the road to face the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas.
