Texans, now without C.J. Stroud, lead Broncos 12-7 at halftime

The Houston Texans lead the Denver Broncos 12-7 at halftime, thanks to four field goals by Ka’imi Fairbairn from distances of 23, 41, 38, and 40 yards. Despite their lead, the Texans struggled in the red zone, going 0-for-3, and missed a 51-yard field goal following a 9-yard sack. Quarterback C.J. Stroud left the game early in the second quarter for a concussion evaluation after a hit by Broncos cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine. The hit, initially flagged, was overturned upon review for a late slide with no helmet contact. The Texans also have guard Ed Ingram (knee) and tackle Tytus Howard (concussion check) listed as questionable to return.

The Texans dominated the first-half stats, outgaining the Broncos 181 to 105 yards and forcing two turnovers. Calen Bullock intercepted Broncos quarterback Bo Nix, and Jaylin Smith recovered a muffed