The Texans are no strangers to proving doubters wrong. And Saturday’s Wild Card win against the Chargers was no exception. Their dominant 32-12 victory silenced skeptics. But it was the postgame shenanigans that are now making the headlines. CJ Stroud and Co. made a statement, albeit not an easy one to digest.

Running back Joe Mixon stole the post-game spotlight with a fiery response to former NFL coach Rex Ryan. “We’re smoking on that Rex Ryan bye-week pack,” Mixon declared on Instagram Live with a cigar in hand. This sure was no ordinary playoff game. It was redemption in the form of stellar performances. Right from Mixon’s 106 rushing yards to Stroud’s clutch touchdown drive. The Texans didn’t just win. They shut down those who dismissed them.

Joe Mixon wasn’t the only Texan delivering a message. Stroud engineered a critical 13-yard touchdown pass to Nico Collins late in the first half to shift the momentum. On the defensive side of things, Stingley grabbed two key picks. This included one late in the fourth quarter. And he capped off with an All-Pro-level performance. Houston made it clear they were no one’s “bye week” with every big play.

The Texans now head into the Divisional Round. And they head there, having shown they thrive under pressure. But Saturday’s victory wasn’t just about advancing. It was also a lot about respect and shutting down doubters. But what did Ryan say?

CJ Stroud & Texans crush criticism with dominant display

Ryan had previously referred to the matchup as a “bye week” for the Chargers. And this comment didn’t sit well with Houston. The Texans took it personally. And they turned the jab into a laughingstock. Defensive standout Derek Stingley Jr. smirked when asked about Ryan’s comments pregame. He and the Texans’ defense were all smiles by the final whistle. Why? They successfully forced four interceptions from Justin Herbert.

Houston’s performance left Rex Ryan eating his words. The Texans played with a chip on their shoulder from the start. Stingley’s game-changing interceptions highlighted it. Eric Murray also joined the party with a pick-six, adding insult to injury for the Chargers. And Ryan’s dismissive comments had ripple effects beyond the field.

Fans took to social media to celebrate Houston’s win. And Mixon’s post-game clapback. “They were extra motivated this week 😭,” one fan tweeted. Meanwhile, CJ Stroud continued to showcase his poise. He finished with 282 passing yards and a touchdown despite an early interception. His connection with Collins was a key factor in the Texans’ success. Collins himself posted 122 receiving yards. And Stroud proved why he’s considered a rising star in the league with each drive.

Meanwhile, Mixon redeemed himself after a third-quarter fumble. He did that with a game-sealing 17-yard touchdown run. His performance marked his second 100-yard postseason game. Which is definitely a testament to his resilience and leadership. Houston’s 32-12 win proved they’re not just here to participate. They’re here to contend.

In the end, Rex Ryan’s words fueled a Texans team eager to prove they belong. Joe Mixon had said the Texans would let “helmet and shoulder pads do the talking” before the game. And the result exemplified that. Now, Houston turns its attention to the Divisional Round. As the win has them armed with confidence, momentum, and plenty of receipts.