It is becoming a familiar script. Denver QB Bo Nix struggled early, but found his rhythm in the fourth quarter for an 18-15 win.

The Denver Broncos (6-2) are set to go on the road to face the Houston Texans (3-4) in Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, on Sunday, Nov. 2. A third Fairbairn field goal gives Houston a 9-7 lead over the Broncos.

Houston Texans coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed Monday morning that quarterback C.J. Stroud is in concussion protocol after taking a hit early in the second quarter of Sunday's 18-15 loss to the Denver Broncos.

The Broncos proved again they are the NFL's best fourth-quarter team, the biggest reason to believe they can vie for a championship.

Watch the top highlights from the Broncos' 18-15 win over the Texans in Week 9 as Denver improved to 7-2. Quarterback Bo Nix moves the Broncos into field-goal range with a 25-yard fourth-quarter rush against the Texans.

Losing starting quarterback C.J. Stroud after his brutal second-quarter collision with Denver Broncos cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine somewhat predictably proved to be a death blow for the Houston Texans.

Learn which TV channel or how to live stream the NFL Week 9 Houston Texans and Denver Broncos game, Sunday, Nov. 2.

Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain ( pec ), tight end Nate Adkins ( knee ) and wide receiver Marvin Mims ( concussion protocol ), P.J. Locke (neck), running back Jaleel McLaughlin and defensive linemen Sai'vion Jones and Jordan Jackson.

Officials flagged the Broncos for the hit, but picked it up after determining there was no direct contact to the head.