The Houston Texans stand among five NFL teams still pursuing their first victory of the 2026 season. Stephen A. Smith believes breaking their losing streak this weekend is crucial.
After a playoff appearance, Houston entered the season as contenders. However, under DeMeco Ryans’ leadership, the team faces a 0-3 record going into Sunday’s game against the Dallas Cowboys. On “First Take” on Wednesday, Smith highlighted the significance of their Week 4 game.
“Their season is on the line. Houston cannot afford to lose this game,” Smith emphasized. “They can’t afford to fall to 0-4. Not in this AFC South. Not with the Jaguars looking strong. Not with Indy being capable, despite their struggles. You can’t afford to go to 0-4 if you’re the Houston Texans. There’s no way around it. If anybody should be desperate, it’s them.”
Smith pointed out the Texans’ defense, previously leading in total defense last season, has not met expectations, now ranking 16th in yards allowed.
He also calls for improved offensive performance. Houston’s recent games include a close 34-31 loss to the Buffalo Bills, followed by a 20-6 defeat at home to the Cincinnati Bengals. The team accumulated 223 yards in a 19-17 loss to the Colts, squandering three defensive turnovers.
Quarterback C.J. Stroud has no interceptions this season, but his average of 6.6 yards per pass attempt is modest. Smith questions whether the 24-year-old merits a significant contract extension.
“C.J. Stroud is in a contract year. He wants a big deal. He’s not demonstrating that he’s worthy of the deal he seeks right now,” Smith asserted.
The Texans and Cowboys face off at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.
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