It was a stark contrast between how the Texans' defense began and ended last season during which a rough start was typified by sluggishness and being a step behind offenses.
During the 2-5 start, the Texans allowed 28.4 points, 370.9 yards per game, 242 passing yards and 128.9 rushing yards per game and had just 13 sacks.
Under veteran defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel, the Texans engineered a major defensive turnaround and played much more aggressively and decisively as the season went on.
Winning the AFC South championship, the Texans finished 9-7 and third in total defense, 10th against the run and third against the pass.