The Houston Texans defeated the Miami Dolphins 20-12, thanks to a strong day from CJ Stroud and the defense.

Per usual, there were plenty of takeaways from this game so let’s break down some notable ones.

1 Houston is heading back to the playoffs – With the Texans win over Miami and the Indianapolis Colts 31-13 loss to the Denver Broncos, Houston has won the AFC South for the second consecutive year.

Unlike last season, the division won’t come down to a thrilling game on the final week as the Texans cruised through one of the weakest divisions in football.

Once again, Houston will secure at least one home playoff game after taking down the Browns in last year’s Wild Card round.

Houston’s 9-5 record is the worst amongst AFC division leaders but once you’re in, anything can happen.

“I feel like today we took another step,” CJ Stroud said. “To play for the division this early in December is kind of cool, and not have to wait until the very back end.”

2 Derek Stingley Jr. is a top-tier cornerback – If you somehow didn’t already know the name of Derek Stingley Jr., you very much do now.

Stingley had two interceptions as part of a strong day for the Houston defense which forced four turnovers.

On Miami’s final drive, as they attempted to tie the game, Stingley ripped an interception away from Tryeek Hill to seal the game.

Earlier in the quarter, Stingley picked off Tua Tagovailoa again as part of a game that saw two of his five interceptions.

3 The Texans start their tough stretch with a win – Anytime you play the Dolphins, Chiefs, and Ravens it’s a tough three-game streach.

That stretch gets even harder when you have to do it in just 11 days but that’s what the Texans have in front of them.

Getting the win against Miami at home to start the run seemed almost essential. Houston travels to Kansas City to take on the Chiefs next Saturday afternoon.