In an electrifying AFC South showdown during Week 8 of the 2025/26 NFL season, the Houston Texans staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the Jacksonville Jaguars 36-29 at NRG Stadium. This thrilling contest featured a dominant Jaguars performance through the first three quarters, only for the Texans to rally with a 26-point surge in the final quarter, securing a pivotal victory that improved Houston’s record to 4-5 while dropping Jacksonville to 5-4.
For much of the game, the Jaguars appeared firmly in control. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence led Jacksonville to a commanding 29-10 lead heading into the fourth quarter, showcasing both poise and precision. Lawrence completed 13 of 23 passes for 158 yards, throwing one touchdown and one interception. The Jaguars’ offense was firing on all cylinders early on, with contributions from key players including Travis Etienne Jr., who rushed 16 times for 58 yards and scored a touchdown, and wide receiver Parker Washington, who made an impact on both offense and special teams by scoring twice, including a punt return.
However, the narrative shifted dramatically in the fourth quarter as Houston’s offense, led by backup quarterback Davis Mills, mounted an inspiring comeback. Starting in place of the injured C.J. Stroud, Mills displayed resilience and leadership, completing 27 of 45 passes for 292 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. The Texans’ final quarter was a masterclass in determination and execution, as they scored touchdowns on all three of their possessions to overturn the sizable deficit.
The comeback began with Mills connecting with rookie wide receiver Jayden Higgins for a 12-yard touchdown, marking Higgins’ first score of the quarter and igniting the home crowd. Following a Jacksonville three-and-out, the Texans kept the momentum going as Mills found tight end Dalton Schultz for another touchdown reception, bringing Houston within striking distance and energizing the stadium.
The defining moment of the comeback came during a relentless 14-play, 93-yard drive capped by Mills himself. Demonstrating his mobility and grit, Mills ran 14 yards for a touchdown that gave Houston a 30-29 lead — their first of the game. This pivotal score not only completed the Texans’ rally but also shifted the momentum decisively in their favor.
Despite the Jaguars’ valiant efforts to respond, their chances were ultimately dashed by critical mistakes. Lawrence’s scramble for 21 yards to midfield with just 21 seconds remaining showed promise, and a 12-yard reception by Parker Washington brought them into Houston territory. However, an illegal use of hands penalty wiped out the key play, stalling their drive. On the very next snap, Lawrence was strip-sacked by Texans’ pass rusher Will Anderson Jr., with veteran defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins recovering the fumble and returning it 32 yards for a touchdown as time expired. This defensive score sealed an unforgettable victory for Houston.
The Texans’ comeback drew comparisons to a recent game in which the Denver Broncos rallied with a 33-point fourth quarter to stun the New York Giants. While Houston’s rally was slightly less explosive, it was no less impressive in terms of overcoming adversity and seizing victory in dramatic fashion.
Individual performances stood out on both sides. For Houston, wide receiver Nico Collins lived up to his status as the team’s primary target, hauling in seven catches on 15 targets for 136 yards, the game’s highest receiving total. On Jacksonville’s side, Jakobi Meyers made his Jaguars debut on his 29th birthday, contributing three receptions for 41 yards, adding depth to the offense.
This game not only provided an exhilarating spectacle for fans but also had significant implications for the AFC South standings. Houston’s comeback win improved their position as they seek to climb back into playoff contention, while Jacksonville’s loss was a setback after a strong start to the season.
Beyond this game, notable predictions for Week 8 from sports analyst Colin Cowherd included the Baltimore Ravens edging out the Chicago Bears, the New England Patriots prevailing over the Cleveland Browns, and the Houston Texans continuing their momentum by defeating the San Francisco 49ers in upcoming matchups. These insights highlight the competitive nature of the NFL as teams jockey for positioning in the critical mid-season stretch.
In summary, the Houston Texans’ dramatic fourth-quarter surge against the Jacksonville Jaguars was a testament to perseverance and clutch performance. Davis Mills’ leadership in the absence of the injured starter, combined with key contributions from players like Nico Collins and Dalton