The Houston Texans are one of five NFL teams yet to secure a victory in the 2026 season. Commentator Stephen A. Smith believes their upcoming game is crucial for breaking the losing streak.

Despite hopes for a strong season following a playoff appearance, the Texans, led by coach DeMeco Ryans, find themselves 0-3 as they prepare to face the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. Smith emphasized the significance of this Week 4 matchup on his show “First Take.”

“Their season is on the line. Houston cannot afford to lose this game,” Smith stated. “They can’t afford to fall to 0-4. Not in this AFC South. Not with the Jaguars performing as they are, and not with Indy showing strength despite challenges. Going 0-4 is not an option for the Houston Texans. There’s no way around it. If anyone should feel desperate, it’s them.”

Smith highlighted that Houston’s defense, which was ranked first in total defense last season, has not met expectations, placing 16th in yards allowed this year.

He also called for improvement from the offense. After a 34-31 loss to the Buffalo Bills, the Texans experienced a 20-6 defeat against the Cincinnati Bengals at home. They managed only 223 yards in a 19-17 loss to the Colts, failing to take advantage of three turnovers they forced.

Quarterback C.J. Stroud has not thrown an interception this season. However, he has averaged 6.6 yards per pass attempt. Smith questioned whether the 24-year-old has demonstrated enough to earn a significant contract extension.

“C.J. Stroud is in a contract year. He wants a big contract. Right now, he’s not showing he’s worthy of the contract he desires,” Smith observed.

The game between the Texans and Cowboys begins at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.