Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans contests a call in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Jaylin Noel (13) beats Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland (26) for a 52-yard reception during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) breaks past Houston Texans defensive end Danielle Hunter (55) as he scrambles out of the pocket during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans place kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn (15) celebrates a 39-yard field goal against the Dallas Cowboys during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) fights to get a pass off, that went incomplete, as he is pressured by Dallas Cowboys linebacker Rashan Gary (7) during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) blocks a field goal attempt by Dallas Cowboys place kicker Brandon Aubrey (17) during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) gets rid of the ball as he is hit by Houston Texans defensive end Logan Hall during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) throws a pass against the Houston Texans during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson (19) can’t chase down a long pass against Dallas Cowboys cornerback Reddy Steward (27) during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans cornerback Kamari Lassiter breaks up a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson (87) during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans argues a call with the officials during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (33) fights for yardage against the Houston Texans defense during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Jaylin Noel (13) beats Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland (26) for a 52-yard reception during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Ryan Flournoy (19) makes a catch against Houston Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. (24) during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) celebrates his 7-yard touchdown reception against the Dallas Cowboys with running back David Montgomery (32) and tight end Dalton Schultz (86) during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) celebrates his 7-yard touchdown reception against the Dallas Cowboys with running back David Montgomery (32) and tight end Dalton Schultz (86) during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) comes down with a 7-yard touchdown reception against Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland (26) during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) makes a catch in front of Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker (24) for a 46-yard reception during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) makes a catch in front of Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker (24) for a 46-yard reception during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) and Houston Texans defensive end Danielle Hunter (55) bring down Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) for a sack during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans place kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn (15) kicks a 54-yard field goal against the Dallas Cowboys during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys place kicker Brandon Aubrey (17) watches his kick in the end of the first half of game action against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans defensive end Logan Hall (96) celebrates with the less of the defense after Dallas Cowboys place kicker Brandon Aubrey (17) missed field goal in the first half of game action at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (33) breaks away from the line of scrimmage in the first half of game action against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) is pressured by Houston Texans defensive end Logan Hall (96) in the first half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys safety Alijah Clark (11) celebrates a stop against the Houston Texans in the first half of game action at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) is pressured by Houston Texans defense in the first half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans place kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn (15) lines up a field goal in the first half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) celebrates his first quarter touchdown with his teammates in the first half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) celebrates his first quarter touchdown with his teammates in the first half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans tight end Brevin Jordan (9) is taken down after making a first-down catch in the first half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Jaylin Noel (13) scrambles around Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker (24) in the second half of game action against at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
A Houston Texans fan reacts to the final seconds of the second half against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) and Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Ceedee Lamb (88) celebrate a touchdown in the second half of game action against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3) blows kisses after a long reception in the second half of game action against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans running back Woody Marks (4) reacts to a touchdown in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans running back Woody Marks (4) tips his way into the end zone during the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans running back Woody Marks (4) dives for extra yards over Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker (24) in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Jaylin Noel (13) gets the ball for a return in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) reacts to being sacked in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (33) rams his way through to a field goal in the second half of game action against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) looks for a receiver in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) runs with the ball past Houston Texans defense in the second half of game action at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans contests a call in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans contests a call in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12), left, and Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) celebrate the team’s touchdown in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) reacts after a touchdown in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) breaks throught the defense to pass the ball in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson (19) gets some extra yards around Dallas Cowboys linebacker Dee Winters (53) in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. walks off the field after a 34-30 loss to the Dallas Cowboys during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans place kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn (15) and quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) walk off the field after a 34-30 loss to the Dallas Cowboys during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) walks off the field after a 34-30 loss to the Dallas Cowboys during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3) talks with Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) after the game at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Kayshon Boutte (14) lies on the turf below Dallas Cowboys safety Caleb Downs (13) after a Hail Mary pass in the end zone failed not eh Texans final play of the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker (24) gets his hands on a Hail Mary in the final seconds of game time against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker (24) goes up over Houston Texans tight end Dalton Schultz (86) to break up a Hail Mary pass in the end zone thrown by the Texans during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker (24) goes up over Houston Texans tight end Dalton Schultz (86) to break up a Hail Mary pass in the end zone thrown by the Texans during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) throws a Hail Mary pass to the end zone that fell in complete during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Jaylin Noel (13) makes a catch for a first down against Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker (24) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) throws a pass to running back David Montgomery (32) during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver sGeorge Pickens (3) and Ceedee Lamb (88) celebrate Lamb’ 12-yard touchdown reception against the Houston Texans during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver sGeorge Pickens (3) and Ceedee Lamb (88) celebrate Lamb’ 12-yard touchdown reception against the Houston Texans during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Ceedee Lamb (88) and tight end Jake Ferguson (87) celebrate Lamb’ 12-yard touchdown reception against the Houston Texans during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Ceedee Lamb (88) hauls in a 12-yard touchdown reception against Houston Texans safety Jalen Pitre (5) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Ceedee Lamb (88) hauls in a 12-yard touchdown reception against Houston Texans safety Jalen Pitre (5) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3) stretches for more yards as Houston Texans safety Reed Blankenship (6) tries to take him down in the second half of game action at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans safety Kamari Ramsey (27) reacts after making a play stopped a Dallas Cowboys play at the line of scrimmage during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans running back David Montgomery (32) is knocked out of bounds by Dallas Cowboys linebacker Dee Winters (53) and cornerback Ameer Speed (23) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson (19) reacts after making a catch for a first down during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson (19) makes a reception for a first down against the Dallas Cowboys during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. hits the arm of Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) on a pass that fell incomplete during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans fans cheer during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys linebacker Rashan Gary (7) celebrates after defensive tackle Quinnen Williams (92) sacked Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Quinnen Williams (92) sacks Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Quinnen Williams (92) sacks Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Quinnen Williams (92) sacks Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Quinnen Williams (92) sacks Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) gets help up from offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery (79) after being sacked in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (33) and tight end Jake Ferguson (87) celebrate Williams’ 2-yard touchdown run against the Houston Texans during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (33) makes his way to the end zone against the Houston Texans in the second half of game action at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (33) breaks away from Houston Texans safety Jalen Pitre (5) near the goal line during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Ceedee Lamb (88) makes a reception against Houston Texans safety Reed Blankenship (6) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Ceedee Lamb (88) makes a reception against Houston Texans safety Reed Blankenship (6) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys running back Tyler Goodson (32) runs the ball against the Houston Texans during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) talks to Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans tight end Cade Stover (8) makes a catch against Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker (24) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) looks for a receiver in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans defensive tackle Jaden Crumedy (95) is helped up in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (33) fights his way past Houston Texans defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins (98) for a 1-yard touchdown run during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (33) fights his way past Houston Texans defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins (98) for a 1-yard touchdown run during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (33) fights his way past Houston Texans defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins (98) for a 1-yard touchdown run during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (33) fights his way past Houston Texans defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins (98) for a 1-yard touchdown run during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) runs with the ball past Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Adedayo Odeleye (96) in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans defensive end Jadeveon Clowney (90) stops Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (33) for a loss during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans defensive end Jadeveon Clowney (90) stops Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams (33) for a loss during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans cornerback Kamari Lassiter (3) breaks up a pass in the end zone intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3), but is called for pass interference, during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
A flag in the endzone during the second half of game action between Houston Texans and the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3) comes down with a 53-yard reception against Houston Texans cornerback Kamari Lassiter (3) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3) comes down with a 53-yard reception against Houston Texans cornerback Kamari Lassiter (3) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3) comes down with a 53-yard reception against Houston Texans cornerback Kamari Lassiter (3) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3) comes down with a 53-yard reception against Houston Texans cornerback Kamari Lassiter (3) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans chats with quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) after a touchdown in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans chats with quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) after a touchdown in the second half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. Dallas Cowboys won the game 34-30.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) is chased out of the pocket by Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Kenny Clark (97) during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) throw a 22-yard touchdown pass to Nico Collins during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Jaylin Noel (13) runs past Dallas Cowboys cornerback Ameer Speed (23) as he returns a kick 53 yards during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Jaylin Noel (13) returns a Dallas Cowboys kick 53 yards during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Jaylin Noel (13) returns a Dallas Cowboys kick 53 yards during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Former Houston Texans Arian Foster, left, and Deandre Hopkins shake hands as they are introduced during a 25th anniversary halftime ceremony during an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Former Houston Texans wide receiver Deandre Hopkins speaks during a 25th anniversary halftime ceremony during an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Former Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson is introduced during a 25th anniversary halftime ceremony during an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Former Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson is introduced during a 25th anniversary halftime ceremony during an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Former Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson is introduced during a 25th anniversary halftime ceremony during an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Former Houston Texans head coach Gary Kubiak is introduced during a 25th anniversary halftime ceremony during an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland (26) takes down Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) in the first half of game action at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys running back Tyler Goodson (32) reacts to a defensive stop in the first half of game action against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Ceedee Lamb (88) runs with the ball in the first half of game action against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans place kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn (15) is congratulated by tight end Brevin Jordan (9) in the first half of game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) is pressured by Houston Texans defensive end Jadeveon Clowney (90) as he drops back to pass during the first half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) hands running back Javonte Williams (33) the ball during in the first half of game action against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans running back David Montgomery (32) runs the ball past Dallas Cowboys defense in the first half of game action at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans former player DeAndre Hopkins talks on the sidelines before game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans huddle up before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans jogs across the field before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans tight end Brevin Jordan warms up before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans Tommy Togiai, Will Anderson Jr. (510 and Danielle Hunter (55) warm up before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans fans watch warm ups before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins warms up before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud warms up before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans and Dallas Cowboys fans make their way to their seats before an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud warms up before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Dallas Cowboys fan Trey Coffey, left, and Houston Texans fan Kristen Orrenmaa walk toward the stadium before an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans fan Veronica De Leon dons a temporary H tattoo as she watches warm ups before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) warms up before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans watches his team warm up before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans Hall of Famer Andre Johnson shakes hands with Steve Beckholt, “aka Ultimate Fan” before halftime ceremonies at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans fan Pamela Irby watches warm ups before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) warms up before game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) warms up before game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) warms up before game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) warms up before game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. (24) warms up before game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans fans try to get autographs before the team takes on the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins (12) enters walks on the field before game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans defensive end Danielle Hunter (55) warms up before game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) warns yo before game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans defensive end Danielle Hunter (55) warms up before game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) warms up before game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Houston Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. (24) warms up before game action against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle
A bald eagle flies through the stadium during the national anthem before an NFL football game between the Houston Texans and the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle
Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. huddles to say a prayer after a 34-30 loss to the Dallas Cowboys during the second half of an NFL football game at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026.
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Clinging to a three-point lead in the final minutes Sunday, the Houston Texans did something that seemed counterintuitive: They used all three of their timeouts on defense as the Dallas Cowboys put together their game-winning drive that resulted in a 34-30 victory for the visitors from up Interstate 45.
After C.J. Stroud led the offense on an 87-yard drive that gave the Texans a 30-27 lead with 2:23 remaining, the Cowboys had the ball at their own 26 with two timeouts, plus the two-minute warning with which to work.
The Texans defense looked like it might get a quick stop, forcing the Cowboys into a fourth-and-4, but Dak Prescott converted by hitting Jake Ferguson for a first down and Dallas was on the move. After a 15-yard pass gave the Cowboys another first down at the Houston 46, the Texans used their first timeout with 1:02 left in the game. The logic was simple: Dallas already was in range for a game-tying field goal from Brandon Aubrey, who has made a 65-yarder in his career, but missed a pair from 60-plus yards in the first half, including one that was blocked. If the defense stops Prescott from finding the end zone and forces a field goal, the Texans could still give themselves time to get down field for a game-winning field goal of their own.
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“At the time I was not surprised that they were calling them, but everybody has a different plan in the way that you attack the last couple of minutes of the game and that was their plan of making sure they gave themselves enough time, which they should have,” Prescott said.
The Texans used their last two timeouts on the next two plays — completions of 4 and 8 yards, respectively — with the Cowboys already inside the Texans’ 34 with 52 seconds still to play.
Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer said the Texans stopping the clock didn’t change how he was calling plays or attacking downfield.
“No, not really,” he said. “Just kind of expect that they’re going to try to use them to save time. It shows that they respect our offense, and they know that we’re capable of putting up points in a hurry.”
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With the Texans out of timeouts, the Cowboys needed just three more plays to find the end zone, which gave Stroud and the Houston offense the ball with 37 seconds left and no timeouts remaining. Of course, the Texans would have liked to been able to stop the clock in that situation, but they may not have had any time remaining — or at least very little — had they not already used the timeouts on defense.
After the Texans called their first timeout at the 1:02 mark, Dallas ran just five more plays, which it would have had time to complete by using its own two timeouts. Critics of Houston’s strategy would say that that by using timeouts of its own, it gave the Cowboys time to regroup and be even more patient, but Prescott points to the two timeouts he still had in his pocket as evidence the Texans’ timeout strategy wasn’t necessarily a benefit to the Cowboys offense.
“We could have called (our timeouts) if we needed to so they knew on their side, ‘Hey, let’s call them to make sure we are give ourselves a chance on offense to be able to respond.’ If we needed them, we would have called them,” Prescott said. “I don’t know if it had that big of an impact in just the score and the outcome. We felt good getting on the ball, having the plays that we had called, putting pressure on them. That’s when we feel like we’re at our best. I think it was just that’s what they felt like they needed to do.”
Interestingly, the Texans faced a similar situation at the end of the first half, although the stakes are understandably lower, and did the same thing.
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With the Cowboys trailing 13-6 and holding two timeouts, they moved into field-goal range with a first down at the Texans’ 41 with 1:29 left in the first half. Houston called three straight timeouts and the defense held strong, forcing the Cowboys to attempt a 65-yard field goal with 30 seconds left in the half. Aubrey missed the long try, setting up the Texans with good field position and allowing them to end the half with a field goal and a 16-6 halftime lead.