The Houston Texans' offense faces a crucial turning point, not by design, but by necessity. With C.J. Stroud sidelined (as has occurred recently), the spotlight swings back to backup quarterback Davis Mills, and the pressure is on offensive coordinator Nick Caley to adjust the playbook to suit his strengths and compensate for the unit's persistent weaknesses. My take is simple, the offense must prioritize efficiency and capitalize on red zone opportunities, a problem that has plagued the team regardless of who is under center.

The Mills Factor: Game Manager vs. Playmaker

Mills, a former third-round pick who spent two seasons as a starter, is a known quantity. His tenure has demonstrated that he is a reliable game manager with flashes of downfield accuracy, particularly when given time. The current version of the Texans' offense, however, has struggled with inconsistency, ranking dead last in the NFL in red zone touchdown percentage. This isn't all on the quarterback, as Head Coach DeMeco Ryans has called out the team's lack of "sheer willpower" at the goal line.

When Mills steps in, the offensive adjustments can't just be about different plays, but rather about a shift in philosophy and gameplay. Mills and the offense will need to lean into quick, high-percentage throws. The running backs must be the engine, particularly when crossing the 20-yard line. The playbook must look like Mills and not Stroud against the Jags.

The Texans will need to focus on getting the ball quickly to key players like Nico Collins and the running backs in space, letting them generate yards after the catch. This minimizes the time Mills holds the ball and simplifies his reads. The momentum will probably be a lot slower to accommodate the time Mills needs to connect with receivers. 

The Coaching Mandate: Simple and Direct

Offensive Coordinator Nick Caley has rightly faced scrutiny for the unit's functionality, or lack thereof. The key to navigating Mills successfully into the next game against Jacksonville lies in simplifying the playbook and executing the small details. Caley must truly alternate that pass/run rotation to give Mills time to adjust in the game.

Against a team like the Jaguars, the offense can't afford a repeat of their sputtering performance. They need to find a way to convert those frustrating field goals into touchdowns. For Mills, this means being clinical, avoiding turnovers, and driving the team down the field slowly but methodically. For Caley, it means building a game plan this week that plays to the strengths of a backup quarterback who's capable of good play but isn't a miraculous playmaker.

Mills is a serviceable quarterback, but he needs a cohesive and disciplined system to succeed. The offensive staff must provide that structure, ensuring that when the Texans get within the 20-yard line, they have a clear and effective plan. The rest of the season depends on their ability to execute this difficult, necessary adjustment.

 How do you think Davis Mills will perform this week. How does a reconstructed playbook look for Mills? Let us know in the comments below.