This Sunday’s Texans vs. Titans matchup goes beyond a typical divisional rivalry, bringing a mix of history, personal connections, and iconic moments that make it one of the most compelling games on the Texans' schedule. Here's a look at the top storylines heading into the game:
Player Connections: Familiar Faces on Both Sides
This game will be a reunion for a few players. Texans middle linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair played for the Titans last season and knows their defense inside and out. Defensive lineman Denico Autry, who was a key part of Tennessee’s defense from 2021 to 2023, now suits up for Houston. On the flip side, Titans defensive lineman Ali Gaye was part of the Texans’ practice squad earlier this season, adding another layer of intrigue to this matchup.
The Battle for Oilers History
The Texans and Titans rivalry runs deeper than their division battles—it starts with the Oilers leaving Houston for Tennessee in 1997. The team kept the "Oilers" name until 1999 when they rebranded to the Titans, realizing the Oilers’ identity was tied to Houston. This historical drama still fuels the rivalry, especially after the Titans wore Oilers throwback uniforms last year against the Texans—a move that did not sit well with Texans owner Hannah McNair. Her choice words on the matter only added to the animosity between the franchises.
Chirping Gone Quiet: La’Jarius Sneed vs. C.J. Stroud & Stefon Diggs
Titans cornerback La’Jarius Sneed stirred things up earlier this season with some trash talk directed at Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud and receiver Stefon Diggs. Unfortunately for Tennessee, both Sneed and Diggs are now on injured reserve. While the chirping might be silenced, the Texans will be looking to back up their play on the field.
The Iconic Andre Johnson vs. Cortland Finnegan Brawl
No Texans vs. Titans preview would be complete without a nod to one of the most unforgettable moments in NFL history: Andre Johnson’s beatdown of pesky cornerback Cortland Finnegan. The image of Johnson handling business against Finnegan still resonates with Texans fans as a defining moment in the rivalry.
Off-the-Field Comedy: Titans’ Tough Season
While the Titans have struggled on the field, first-year head coach Brian Callahan and quarterback Will Levis have provided some unintentional entertainment. Levis’ rollercoaster season has been filled with meme-worthy moments, and Callahan’s sideline reactions to Levis’ erratic play have gone viral more than once. This adds a humorous subplot to a game that otherwise has serious implications for the Texans’ divisional aspirations.
This game is more than just a matchup between AFC South rivals; it’s a clash of history, pride, and personalities. Expect some fireworks on the field—and plenty of Texans fans trolling the Titans for their off-field blunders and historical baggage.
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