In a thrilling Week 5 matchup, the Houston Comets held off the Austin Gunslingers with a final score of 23-20, securing a crucial victory as they look to solidify their position in the league. The stakes were high as both teams aimed to gain momentum in the 2026 season, making this win even more significant for the Comets. Leading the charge for Houston was quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr, who threw for 270 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his ability to connect with his receivers. Notably, Jameson Williams emerged as his top target, racking up an impressive 130 receiving yards that kept the Comets' offense firing on all cylinders. Meanwhile, Demond Claiborne was the standout for Austin on the ground, but his 61 rushing yards weren’t enough to tip the scales. Defensively, the Comets made key plays that ultimately influenced the outcome of the game. Christian Benford led the team with four total tackles, while Lukas Van Ness added a crucial sack to disrupt the Gunslingers' rhythm. The game’s turning point came when Zaven Collins intercepted a pass, halting a potential scoring drive from Austin and allowing Houston to maintain their slim lead late in the fourth quarter.