AFC South Week 1 Power Rankings: Jaguars remain on top after win vs. Colts
• How bout the Titans and Texans? How do they stack up against their division foes?
The Jacksonville Jaguars were favored to win the AFC South heading into the 2023 season. And after one week of action, it looks like no adjustments are needed to the predictions. Following a 31-21 win over the Indianapolis Colts, the Jags are in control of the division.
That said, there are plenty of weeks of football left in 2023 and things can change for the blink of an eye. For the time being, here's how the AFC South looks heading into Week 2.
No. 4 Post-Week 1 AFC South Power Ranking: Houston Texans
Although the Houston Texans lost 29-9 to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1, their defense made things interesting early in the game. Linebacker Denzel Perryman led the team with 11 tackles. Similarly, rookie defensive end William Anderson Jr. had a solid NFL debut, tallying six total tackles and a sack.
Heading into halftime, the game was still close, with the Ravens leading 7-6. However, things got out of control in the second half and the Texans' offense wasn't able to keep up with their Baltimore counterpart. Still, the Houston brass should be pleased with C.J. Stroud's performance.
Even though Stroud wasn't great, he held his own in his first-ever NFL game, completing over 63 percent of his passes for 242 yards. The former Ohio State Buckeye didn't throw an interception but he did lose a fumble. Still, he stood tall in the pocket despite the fact that he didn't always get optimal protection.
The Texans have some defensive talent. They now need to get the running game going to take some pressure off Stroud's shoulders.