On November 2^nd, Deshaun Watson tore his ACL during practice while running a regular read-option play. Deshaun’s ACL underwent successful surgery on November 8^th, but the Houston quarterback is not expected to recover fully before the end of the season. The Texans will have to work with backup QB Tom Savage, disheartening many fans. Houston’s chances of making the post-season have diminished to almost zero.

Deshaun Watson’s passer rating was over 100 in his last 4 games before his injury, which helped cement him as a Super Bowl threat. In 7 games, he threw 19 touchdowns and was stopped just short of 1,700 yards. Watson’s quarterback rating had been steadily increasing since Week 2. Watson’s injury takes the engine out of the Texans offense, and after Week 9 it’s apparent that the team won’t be the same.

In Week 8 against the Seahawks, Deshaun Watson threw for 402 yards and 4 touchdowns, but in Week 9- after Deshaun’s injury- the Texans only managed 219 yards and 1 touchdown. This steep decline in offensive capability impacts the Texans in a massive way and limits their scoring potential. The

Texans were predicted to win the AFC South and advance to the playoffs, but as of November 2^nd, the Jaguars and Titans have taken control of the division. Watson’s replacement, Tom Savage, is not a fan favorite by any means, and simply cannot play football as well as Watson can. Savage’s ability to escape the pocket and make plays is unimpressive compared to his first string peer. The Houston Texans have a bright future in Watson, but as far as this season is concerned, they can forget about a postseason run.