Colts defender excited for 'heavy rivalry' game with Texans in Week 1

There is a rivalry brewing in the AFC South.

Touting some of the league's best young talent at the quarterback position, the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans could have a rivalry that spans a decade.

Both Anthony Richardson and C.J. Stroud have shown plenty of promise — the former's in a much smaller sample. It should make for some competitive games moving forward.

Colts linebacker E.J. Speed discussed what that feels like with the Texans on the schedule in Week 1.

"It was everything, man,” Speed told KPRC2 . “They made some moves in the offseason that I respect, but I mean, coming back last year, we had AR. First game came out and played well and won the game. They won the game when it matters. Week One should be good. It’s 1-1 with our quarterbacks. We both got quarterbacks in the same year, and it will be a good tiebreaker."

The Colts got the better of the Texans in their first meeting last season with a 31-20 victory in Week 2. However, Richardson played just two offensive drives before exiting with a concussion. He did score two rushing touchdowns before leaving, though.

Meanwhile, the Texans did win the game that mattered. The Week 18 win-and-in game determined the division winner, and the Texans came out on top in a dramatic fashion.

The rivalry seems to be bringing out the best in both sides, and Speed had no issues revealing his respect for Stroud.

“Definitely, a lot of deep respect. Him coming in, being a Black quarterback in the league is a blessing in itself. So, a lot of respect for him. It will be a good matchup come Week One.”

The Texans are currently favored to win the division by most accounts, but the Colts have a sleeper build within them if Richardson stays healthy.

This should make for an explosive matchup right off the bat.