Nico Collins shines for Texans in first four games

In the United States, the Houston Texans have experienced a promising start to the NFL season, largely due to the impressive performance of wide receiver Nico Collins. Over the first four games, Collins has amassed 489 receiving yards, leading the league and setting a franchise record for the most yards in that span. His standout performance includes three 100-yard games this season, showcasing his growth since a breakout year in 2023 where he recorded 1,297 yards. Quarterback C.J. Stroud has also contributed significantly, throwing for a season-high 345 yards and two touchdowns in a recent game, marking a notable achievement in his early career. Despite these successes, the Texans have struggled with penalties, accumulating 40 overall this season, the highest in the NFL. Head coach DeMeco Ryans expressed frustration over the team's repeated mistakes, emphasizing the need for improvement to enhance their performance. The Texans' offensive strength, led by Collins and Stroud, contrasts sharply with their defensive issues, particularly in terms of discipline on the field. Additionally, the team faced challenges with injuries to key players, including running backs Joe Mixon and Dameon Pierce, which forced them to rely on backup players like Dare Ogunbowale. Ogunbowale's recent touchdown reception was a highlight, marking his first since 2022. Overall, while the Texans show promise, they must address their penalties and injuries to become a competitive team in the league.