Overview
- C.J. Stroud threw for a season-high 318 yards and two touchdowns in a 26-15 win over the 49ers, responding after the offense struggled in Seattle.
- Houston totaled 475 yards and did not allow a sack for the first time this season, reflecting a marked step forward in pass protection.
- With Nico Collins out in concussion protocol, Xavier Hutchinson, Jaylin Noel and Jayden Higgins posted career highs as depth targets produced two touchdowns.
- Broncos All-Pro cornerback Pat Surtain II is expected to miss multiple weeks with a pectoral strain and will not face Houston, while Denver arrives 6-2 with an NFL‑leading 36 sacks and a top‑five scoring offense.
- Collins is reported to be trending toward a return, but his status remains uncertain as the 3-4 Texans prepare for a Denver defense that has been stingy despite the loss in the secondary.