When the Houston Texans take on the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday in their first division game of the year, Houston’s defense must have a plan for containing Colts running back Jonathan Taylor who is the most talented player on the team.
Texans All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson knows the importance of stopping Taylor. The entire league knows it after his seven years of domination in the pros, but Houston knows it better than most.
Last season, the Texans held Taylor under 50 rushing yards twice and won both games, secruing a spot in the postseason. When he has over 105 yards, the Texans have only won once.
In the three games where Houston has managed to keep Taylor out of the end zone, it's won two matchups.
Will Anderson Jr. and the Texans have
maintained a “joyful intensity” despite starting 0-2. He mentioned they talked today about how it might be some guy’s last year‘s playing and “ how can we make it to the Super Bowl?” And leave their legacy in a good way. pic.twitter.com/ykpiv8U3Ow
— Houston Stressans (@TexansCommenter) September 23, 2026
“I think he's a really great athlete, really great running back, one of the top running backs in this league. I think for him and the scheme that they run, he's very patient. He's a patient runner,” Anderson said. “If the hole looks clogged, he's just going to chop his feet, chop his feet and then bounce it outside. He's fast enough to get around a corner. He's fast enough to get around a defensive end and outrun a linebacker. This game is going to be everybody really just having to be in their gaps, knocking back, having great extension, playing with great eyes, great feet and great hands.”
After just two games so far this year, Taylor already leads the NFL in rushing touchdowns with four and has 190 rushing yards.
His 90.6 yards per game across his career is also the highest among active players.
Kickoff is scheduled for Noon on CBS.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans All-Pro DE Will Anderson on facing Colts RB Jonathan Taylor
