Colts vs. Texans game recap: Houston downs Indy 29-17 to clinch AFC South

After the Houston Texans were beat down by the New England Patriots last week, observers began to wonder if they were really an elite team. A win over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday wouldn't prove to the doubters that the Texans are among the best in the league, but it would ensure they kept the best record in the AFC and clinched the AFC South.

That is far more important than what some people think and that's what they did, downing the Colts 29-17 to improve to 12-2 and claim the division.

The Texans didn't play great and had to settle for five field goals, but 151 yards from Andre Johnson and a touchdown on a blocked punt proved more than enough to get back on track against a Colts team that would have clinched a playoff spot with a win. Instead, the 9-5 Colts will have to try again next week to book their place in the postseason and complete a remarkable turnaround from last year's 2-14 abomination of a team.

Fantasy studs and duds

Johnson was sensational for the Texans and your fantasy team, reeling in 11 passes for 151 yards and a touchdown. Arian Foster did his part, too, rushing for 165 yards, but no touchdowns.

On the Colts side, T.Y. Hilton got the job done, making his three catches count for 78 yards and a touchdown. Vick Ballard also ran for 105 yards on just 18 carries.

Injury report

Neither team suffered any immediate, significant injuries to note.

Did they cover?

The Texans were eight-point favorites so they covered thanks to a couple fourth-quarter field goals.

What's next

Houston is playing for home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs, which they will get if they win out. That begins next week when they host Minnesota. The Colts' quest for a playoff spot takes them to Kansas City next week.