Nico Collins Returns, Texans Aim to Upset Cowboys on Monday Night
Houston, TX – The Houston Texans received a significant boost to their offense as wide receiver Nico Collins was cleared to play in Monday night’s game against the Dallas Cowboys. Collins had been sidelined since Week 10 with a hamstring injury, but his return will provide a much-needed weapon for quarterback Davis Mills.
Collins’ Impact on Texans Offense
Collins emerged as a reliable target for Mills in the early part of the season. Through nine games, he had recorded 32 receptions for 413 yards and two touchdowns. His size (6’4″, 215 lbs) and physicality make him a dangerous deep threat, and his ability to make contested catches adds another dimension to the Texans’ passing attack.
With Collins back in the lineup, the Texans’ offense will have a better chance of moving the ball and scoring points. The Cowboys’ defense has been vulnerable to big plays this season, and Collins’ presence could force them to adjust their coverage schemes. This will open up opportunities for other playmakers like Brandin Cooks and Dameon Pierce.
Cowboys’ Defense Faces Challenge
The Cowboys’ defense has been one of the NFL’s most opportunistic units this season, forcing 27 turnovers. However, they have struggled against teams with dynamic passing attacks. In Week 11, they allowed Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins to throw for 343 yards and three touchdowns. Collins’ return will provide another challenge for the Cowboys’ secondary.
Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs, who leads the NFL with 11 interceptions, will likely be tasked with covering Collins on Monday night. Diggs is known for his aggressive play style and ball-hawking ability, but Collins’ size and physicality will make it difficult for him to jam him at the line of scrimmage.
Texans Seek First Win Over Cowboys in Six Years
The Texans have not defeated the Cowboys since 2016, and they will be looking to snap that streak on Monday night. The Cowboys are currently 8-3 and in contention for the NFC East title, while the Texans are 1-9-1 and fighting for a top draft pick. Despite their record, the Texans have shown signs of improvement in recent weeks, and they will be confident in their chances with Collins back in the lineup.
A win over the Cowboys would be a major upset, but it is not out of the realm of possibility. The Texans’ defense has been playing well, and they have a few playmakers on offense who can make a difference. If Collins can have a big game, the Texans could pull off a shocking victory.
Conclusion
Nico Collins’ return to the lineup is a significant boost for the Houston Texans. His size, physicality, and deep-threat ability will make him a valuable target for Davis Mills. The Cowboys’ defense will have their hands full trying to contain Collins, which could open up opportunities for other Texans playmakers. While the Texans are underdogs on Monday night, they have a chance to upset the Cowboys with Collins back in the lineup.