Brandon Weeden stepped up to lead the depleted Texans to a 16-10 victory over the ailing Colts on Sunday, putting Houston in the AFC South driver's seat.
The former Cowboys quarterback, signed by the Texans Nov. 18, filled in admirably for replacement starter T.J. Yates after Yates suffered a non-contact injury to his leg and reportedly tore his ACL, effectively ending his season. Yates, who started his second game of the season after starting quarterback Brian Hoyer was ruled out with a concussion, finished 6 for 10 for 68 yards with an interception prior to getting hurt.
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Weeden finished 11 for 18 for 105 yards with an 8-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Jaelen Strong as he led the Texans to the team's first-ever win in Indianapolis.
The significance of Yates' injury may not amount to much if Hoyer is able to return Week 16. He didn't participate in practice this week and has not cleared concussion protocol, but it's possible he'll get back to full health in time to return in time to start against the Titans. The Texans would clinch the AFC South if they win that game.
With the loss, the Colts no longer control their own destiny. They play the Dolphins and Titans in the final two weeks and will need the Texans to lose at least once.
Omnisport's Brandon Schlager contributed to this report.