NFL power rankings Week 1: Monday morning ranks

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Sep 7, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) reacts after a play as Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) lays on the ground during the game at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

Ryan Fitzpatrick limited his mistakes, Arian Foster gashed the Washington defense and the Houston Texans defense dictated the pace of the game in their season opening win at NRG Stadium.

The J.J. Watt led defense sacked Washington quarterback Robert Griffin III on three occasions, and kept the pressure on all game long with 14 quarterback hits throughout the game.

Fitzpatrick was also exactly what Houston needed on offense, with an efficient 14-of-22 passing performance for 206 yards and a touchdown. With the strength of his running game and the Houston defense leading the way, Houston has a chance to be one of the surprise teams in 2014 as long as Fitzpatrick can limit mistakes.

The only concern for Houston has to be the health of No. 1 overall pick Jadeveon Clowney, who injured his MCL.

For more news on the Houston Texans, head on over to FanSided’s Texans blog, Toro Times.

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