Dylan Cole trusted his keys, reacting instinctively and aggressively to the New England Patriots' cadence, shifts and play-calling.
During a mostly sterling performance, Cole demonstrated why he's regarded as the prize of the Texans' undrafted rookie class who's emerged as a strong contender for a roster spot.
In the Texans' preseason victory Saturday night at NRG Stadium, the former Missouri State All-American recorded a team-high 10 tackles with five solos and one pass defended.
Cole's reaction to his second NFL preseason game was telling. He was far from satisfied, acknowledging a few mental errors and missed tackles against the defending Super Bowl champions.