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Nick Caley must get Nico Collins the ball

I'm not one to make excuses, and I'm also not one to encourage panic.

Yes, the Houston Texans lost 14-9 in their season opener to the Rams.

Yes, their offense didn't score a touchdown.

And yes, there is reason to be concerned that this could become a theme.

But let's be honest. The Rams will be one of the toughest teams the Texans will play this season. The Texans had an opportunity to win before Dare Ogunbowale fumbled around the 20-yard line. It was a solid play made by Rams linebacker Nate Landman.

Before jumping to unfair conclusions, let's first see what the Texans do against the Buccaneers, another playoff team.

The biggest concern I had was the offensive line. Quarterback C.J. Stroud was pressured on 41.2% of his dropbacks.

What happened to the progress they had made throughout the preseason? If Ed Ingram returns, will they revert back to their original lineup with Aireontae Ersery at left tackle, Ingram at right guard and Tytus Howard at right tackle? Or go back to the one they started in Week 1.

The offensive line will be the difference in Monday's game. Can that group give Stroud enough time to hit his receivers?

The Texans were unable to hit on explosive plays last week.

Nico Collins was only targeted five times. He had just three catches for 25 yards, his lowest output since 2023.

Offensive coordinator Nick Caley must find a way to get the ball in his best playmakers' hands or it will be a long season.

Read the rest of my story Nick Caley and why the Texans still have faith he can turn things around.

Jonathan M. Alexander, Texans beat reporter

jonathan.alexander@houstonchronicle.com

Fantasy studs and duds

Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) walks onto the field before an NFL football game at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025.

Photo by: Brett Coomer, Houston Chronicle

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WR Nico Collins

Why: Collins was targeted only five times in Week 1. You better believe...

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Trending up

RB Nick Chubb: He had 60 yards on 13 carries against the Rams and got better as the game went on. Ryans said he anticipates putting the ball in his hands more.

QB C.J. Stroud: He looked a lot more comfortable in the pocket and evading pressure than he did late last season. At times last year, he looked rattled. He was poised last week.

DE Will Anderson Jr.: He had a sack in his first game. It should be the first of many as he aims for an All-Pro season.

OT Tytus Howard: Howard didn't give up a single pressure against the Rams' vaunted defensive line. It was a great performance for the veteran.

Trending down

LB Christian Harris: Harris played the first few series but didn't play the rest of the game as the Texans went to their nickel package. Harris has been relegated to third- and fourth-string linebacker, behind Henry To'oTo'o.

DB Jalen Pitre: Pitre is starting to become a liability in coverage. He's great at stopping the run, but has struggled in pass coverage.