Williams, Texans flatten Broncos

HOUSTON - Mario Williams dragged down Jay Cutler for the third time, jumped up and sashayed like a hula dancer.

Last year's No. 1 pick had a career-high 3 1/2 sacks to lead the Houston Texans to a 31-13 victory over the Denver Broncos last night.

With its seventh of the season, Houston (7-7) tied the franchise record for victories.

Williams' performance made him Houston's career sack leader with 17 1/2. He's had a sack in a team-record five straight games and has 13 for the season and nine in the last five games.

The Broncos got their second straight big game from receiver Brandon Marshall, who finished with 11 receptions for 107 yards. *