Houston’s 20-3 preseason win over Carolina highlighted a quick-start offense under Nick Caley, with C.J. Stroud delivering a 6-yard TD to Nico Collins on the opening drive. Kedon Slovis and Davis Mills later steered drives, and British Brooks’ 1-yard TD sealed it, showing Texans’ depth behind Stroud. On offense, Blake Fisher and Ed Ingram anchored the line’s improved protection, while Luke Lachey and Jakob Johnson offered flexible TE/fullback looks. Defensively, Jaylin Smith’s INT and Damon Arnette’s key play plus Solomon Byrd’s sack stood out as the competition for roster spots tightens heading into Detroit practice week.