Houston Texans vs Kansas City Chiefs Match Player Stats
Introduction
The Houston Texans vs Kansas City Chiefs matchup on December 7, 2025, was one of the most exciting games of the season. The Texans entered the game with a fierce defense and a promising young quarterback, while the Kansas City Chiefs boasted an explosive offense led by Patrick Mahomes. With playoff implications on the line, both teams brought their best to the field. In the end, the Texans pulled off a stunning victory, defeating the Chiefs 20-10. The game featured standout performances from C.J. Stroud, Damien Pierce, and the Texans’ defense, while Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce struggled to find rhythm against a dominant defensive effort. This article breaks down all key aspects of the game, including individual performances, team statistics, and crucial moments that led to the Texans’ upset.
Game Summary
In a game full of tension and high stakes, the Houston Texans handed the Kansas City Chiefs a surprising loss with a 20-10 scoreline. The Texans dominated on both sides of the ball, especially in the second half. C.J. Stroud, the rookie quarterback, played with poise and maturity, throwing for 260 yards and a touchdown. Damien Pierce contributed significantly on the ground, rushing for 85 yards and 1 touchdown. However, it was the Texans’ defense that stood out, forcing Patrick Mahomes into multiple mistakes and limiting the Chiefs to just 10 points. On the Chiefs’ side, Mahomes threw for 300 yards but failed to find the end zone, and Travis Kelce was held to only 5 catches for 45 yards. The Texans’ defensive unit, led by Will Anderson Jr., pressured Mahomes consistently, sacking him 3 times and forcing 2 interceptions. The game turned in the Texans’ favor in the second half, as they shut down the Chiefs’ offense and managed to control the clock with timely rushing and efficient passing.
Quick Reference Box
| Stat Category | Houston Texans | Kansas City Chiefs |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 352 yards | 410 yards |
| Passing Yards | 260 yards | 300 yards |
| Rushing Yards | 92 yards | 110 yards |
| Total Touchdowns | 2 | 1 |
| Passing TDs | 1 | 0 |
| Rushing TDs | 1 | 1 |
| Sacks | 3 | 2 |
| Interceptions | 2 | 0 |
| Turnovers | 2 | 3 |
| Time of Possession | 34 minutes | 26 minutes |
| 3rd Down Conversions | 7/14 | 6/13 |
| Red Zone Conversions | 1/2 | 0/2 |
Final Score and Game Information
Final Score: Houston Texans 20, Kansas City Chiefs 10
Date: December 7, 2025
Venue: NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas
Attendance: 70,000 fans
Houston Texans Team Statistics
| Player | Minutes Played | Passes Completed | Passing Yards | Rushing Yards | Total Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C.J. Stroud | 60 | 23 | 260 | 5 | 1 |
| Damien Pierce | 40 | – | – | 85 | 1 |
| Nico Collins | 55 | 5 | 60 | – | – |
| Tank Dell | 48 | 5 | 70 | – | – |
| Dalton Schultz | 50 | 4 | 40 | – | – |
| Will Anderson Jr. | 60 | – | – | – | 1 SACK, 1 TFL |
Kansas City Chiefs Team Statistics
| Player | Minutes Played | Passes Completed | Passing Yards | Rushing Yards | Total Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Patrick Mahomes | 60 | 28 | 300 | 20 | – |
| Isiah Pacheco | 35 | – | – | 70 | 1 |
| Travis Kelce | 58 | 5 | 45 | – | – |
| Marquez Valdes-Scantling | 50 | 4 | 50 | – | – |
| Juju Smith-Schuster | 55 | 4 | 40 | – | – |
| Chris Jones | 60 | – | – | – | 2 SACKS, 1 TFL |
Quarterback Performance
The quarterback battle between C.J. Stroud and Patrick Mahomes was a key storyline in this game. Stroud, the rookie, showcased composure and efficiency, throwing for 260 yards and 1 touchdown. He managed the game well, spreading the ball around and keeping the Chiefs’ defense off balance. Stroud had solid protection from his offensive line and did a great job of connecting with his receivers on crucial third downs. His performance was crucial in the Texans’ victory, and it’s clear he’s developing into a leader for this team.
Patrick Mahomes, on the other hand, threw for 300 yards but failed to find the end zone. Despite his usual dynamic playmaking, Mahomes struggled against the Texans’ defense, particularly under pressure. The Chiefs’ offensive line allowed Mahomes to be sacked 3 times, and the Texans forced him into key mistakes. Mahomes missed opportunities, and without his usual late-game magic, Kansas City couldn’t mount a comeback.
Rushing Attack Comparison
Damien Pierce and Isiah Pacheco both had decent performances on the ground, but the Texans’ rushing attack was more effective. Pierce rushed for 85 yards on 20 carries, averaging 4.25 yards per carry. His physical running style allowed the Texans to maintain balance on offense and keep the Chiefs’ defense honest. Pierce also had a 4-yard touchdown run in the second quarter, which helped give the Texans the lead.
Isiah Pacheco, the Chiefs’ lead back, rushed for 70 yards on 18 carries, but his performance was less impactful. Despite his best efforts, the Texans’ defense shut down the Chiefs’ ground game, limiting Pacheco’s opportunities. The Chiefs struggled to establish the run, which made them one-dimensional and easier to defend.
Houston Texans Receiving
The Texans’ receiving corps had a solid outing, with Nico Collins leading the charge with 5 catches for 60 yards. Tank Dell also played a crucial role, contributing 5 catches for 70 yards. Dalton Schultz, the reliable tight end, added 4 catches for 40 yards. The Texans spread the ball around, using a combination of short passes and deep shots to move the ball. Stroud connected with his top targets consistently on key downs, and the receivers helped open up the game with big plays.
Kansas City Chiefs Receiving
Travis Kelce was once again the Chiefs’ top target, but the Texans’ defense limited his impact. Kelce caught 5 passes for 45 yards, but was unable to break free for the big play the Chiefs needed. Marquez Valdes-Scantling added 4 catches for 50 yards, while Juju Smith-Schuster finished with 4 catches for 40 yards. The Chiefs’ receiving corps struggled to get open against the Texans’ secondary, with Kelce being the only player to have a notable impact.
Defensive Leaders
On defense, Will Anderson Jr. was a standout for the Texans, finishing the game with 1 sack and 1 tackle for loss (TFL). He was a constant disruptor, helping the Texans apply pressure on Mahomes. Kamu Grugier-Hill also contributed with 6 tackles, while Jalen Pitre had an interception in the second half, further putting the game out of reach for the Chiefs.
The Chiefs’ defense was led by Chris Jones, who finished with 2 sacks and 1 tackle for loss. Despite Jones’ efforts, the Texans offense found ways to neutralize him, and Kansas City’s defense couldn’t get the stops they needed when it mattered most.
Game Flow and Critical Moments
The turning point of the game came in the third quarter, when C.J. Stroud connected with Nico Collins for a 20-yard touchdown, extending the Texans’ lead to 17-10. From there, the Texans’ defense stepped up, shutting out the Chiefs for the remainder of the game. Jalen Pitre’s interception in the fourth quarter effectively sealed the game for the Texans. While Mahomes had some moments, the Texans’ defense and Stroud’s efficiency were key factors in their victory.
Why Houston Won
The Texans won because they were able to execute a balanced offensive attack and take advantage of the Chiefs’ defensive mistakes. The Texans’ defense was excellent at limiting Mahomes’ options and forcing turnovers, particularly in the second half. Stroud played with poise, spreading the ball around and making smart throws under pressure. The Texans’ rushing game, led by Damien Pierce, allowed them to control the clock and keep the Chiefs’ offense off the field.
Special Teams
Special teams played a crucial role, with Ka’imi Fairbairn of the Texans converting 2 field goals and 2 extra points. His consistent kicking helped the Texans maintain their lead throughout the game. On the Chiefs’ side, Harrison Butker converted 1 field goal but missed a crucial 47-yard attempt in the fourth quarter, which would have helped the Chiefs close the gap.
Season Implications
With this victory, the Houston Texans improved to 7-5 on the season, keeping them in the AFC playoff hunt. The Chiefs, with a 9-3 record, still remain a top contender but will need to adjust their game plan moving forward. This win was a significant confidence booster for the Texans, showing that they can compete with the best teams in the league.
FAQs
1. What was the turning point in the game?
The Texans’ touchdown pass to Nico Collins in the third quarter was the turning point, as it gave the Texans a 17-10 lead they would never relinquish.
2. Who were the standout players in the game?
C.J. Stroud had a strong performance with 260 yards and 1 touchdown, while Damien Pierce added 85 rushing yards and 1 touchdown. For the Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes threw for 300 yards but was held to just 10 points.
3. How did the Texans’ defense perform?
The Texans’ defense was stellar, with Will Anderson Jr. and Jalen Pitre playing key roles in limiting Mahomes and forcing turnovers.
4. What were the key stats for the Chiefs?
Patrick Mahomes threw for 300 yards but had no touchdowns. Travis Kelce caught 5 passes for 45 yards, but the Chiefs’ offense struggled throughout.
5. How did Damien Pierce perform in this game?
Damien Pierce rushed for 85 yards and 1 touchdown, providing the Texans with a solid ground game to control the clock.
6. How important was this win for the Texans?
This victory was huge for the Texans as it kept them in the AFC playoff race and gave them momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.
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