Deshaun Watson got the worst birthday gift of his life from Geno Atkins, but the Houston Texans quarterback redeemed himself in a hurry on Thursday Night Football. Watson, starting in his first NFL game, took a huge shot from the Cincinnati Bengals defensive lineman in the second quarter. Atkins was running free in the middle and threw his entire body into Watson as the quarterback appeared ready to let loose a throw.
Smartly, Watson decided to hang on to the ball and somehow held onto his health and life while Atkins attempted to throw him into the fourth dimension.
DeShaun Watson got ROCKED by Geno Atkins. pic.twitter.com/V2I4b067II
— Devon Haripal (@DevonHaripalNBA) September 15, 2017
It was a huge hit that made Watson tumble over, but the Clemson product got back up and stayed in the game. He then unleashed a stunning 49-yard touchdown run that solidified why he’s starting over Tom Savage in Houston.
Mr. @DeshaunWatson WILL DO IT HIMSELF.
FORTY-NINE YARD TOUCHDOWN RUN! #Texans #TNF https://t.co/cpo5o71D6l
— NFL (@NFL) September 15, 2017
Watson had time in the pocket but started to run when no one appeared open. He slipped past two defenders at midfield and took off, picking up blocks downfield to turn it up and hit the end zone for the score.
As Sports Illustrated, Watson looked like a certain Tecmo Bowl legend on the touchdown run.
https://twitter.com/SInow/status/908508253163749376
It’s been a big day for Watson, who got birthday wishes from Mia Khalifa, though the former adult film actress clarified that they aren’t an item. The rookie seems to be doing fine on his own, though.
