Texans' Hopkins praises Savage's 'even-keeled' demeanor

Tom Savage's first start of the season for the Houston Texans didn't exactly go as planned, with the Cincinnati Bengals' pass-rush making life hell for the young quarterback.

The Texans were able to sneak the win 12-10, however, and wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins praised Savage for remaining composed despite the beating he was taking.

"Oh, yeah, that's one thing about him that you have to love," Hopkins said, according to the Houston Chronicle's Aaron Wilson. "He's always even-keeled throughout. Even when he was getting sacked he would come back to the sideline he was the same guy: 'Let's go out and do better next drive.' I didn't see him get frustrated, and I don't think anybody saw him get frustrated during that."

Brock Osweiler - who was replaced by Savage in Week 15 - was criticized by some during his time as the starter for his lack of composure, and while Houston's offense didn't look much better with Savage under center, it appears his presence is having a positive effect.

Hopkins, in particular, looks more threatening with Savage at quarterback, with the star wideout catching 11 passes for 130 yards over the past two games.

"I've been knowing Tom since he got here," said Hopkins. "Even when he wasn't out there on the field he was still my buddy, still talking, still talking about football and things in general. Nothing's changed."