The Houston Texans secured their first victory of the 2026 NFL season by decisively defeating the Tennessee Titans 26-3 on October 11 at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. This win improved the Texans' record to 1-4, while the Titans fell to 0-5.
Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud delivered an impressive performance, completing 26 of 34 passes for 261 yards and a touchdown. He also contributed a 2-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter. Running back Will Marks led the ground game with 62 rushing yards on 15 carries. Wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson topped the receiving corps with 65 yards on four receptions. Kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn was instrumental, converting all four field goal attempts, including a 53-yarder. (statmuse.com)
The Titans struggled offensively, managing only 187 total yards. Quarterback Cam Ward completed 23 of 36 passes for 170 yards but threw an interception and was sacked four times. Running back Tony Pollard was limited to 52 rushing yards on 14 carries. The Titans' sole points came from a 30-yard field goal by Joey Slye in the first quarter. (statmuse.com)
Defensively, the Texans dominated, forcing two turnovers and limiting the Titans to 15 first downs. Linebacker Al-Shaair led the team with 11 tackles, while defensive end Will Anderson Jr. recorded three sacks. (statmuse.com)
This victory marks a significant turnaround for the Texans, who had been winless in their first four games. The Titans, now 0-5, face increasing pressure to address their ongoing struggles as the season progresses.