Notebook From Texans' Narrow Loss to Jacksonville

1. Despite the loss, C.J. Stroud was once again incredible.

Texans fans are bought in. After Stroud connected with Nico Collins for a critical score in the fourth quarter, "MVP" chants filled NRG Stadium. The Houston quarterback finished the day with 304 passing yards on 26 completions, and he truly looks like an MVP candidate in his rookie season. 

He's the cog that makes the Texans go, and performances like these, even in a loss, are huge for this franchise.

2. Nico Collins breaks the century mark.

Collins was Stroud's favorite target on the day, hauling in seven receptions for 104 yards and a score. Devin Singletary (54 yards) and Tank Dell (50) were second and third in the receiving yards category as Stroud spread the ball to 10 different receivers on Sunday.

3. "Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades."

The bottom line of the day is that the Texans came up short, and they are now two games behind the Jags in the division. It's a brutal and heartbreaking loss, but there are some good things to take away from this game for Houston.

Still, that won't be enough to salve the wounds or the AFC South standings this week. Houston will now try to turn the page and prepare for a home date with the Denver Broncos next week to conclude a three-game homestand.