Former Wisconsin quarterback Graham Mertz delivered by far his best performance of the NFL preseason on Saturday.

In the Houston Texans’ 26-7 win over the Detroit Lions, Mertz completed 14 of 16 passes for 145 yards, one touchdown and zero interceptions. The former Badger played the entire first half of the contest before giving way to Kedon Slovis — his top competition for the team’s third quarterback roster spot. Mertz led the Texans’ offense to a dominant half, with a nine-play field goal drive, eight-play touchdown drive and 11-play touchdown drive, building a 16-7 halftime lead.

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Mertz’s most notable moment came with just under five minutes remaining in the half. On 2nd-and-goal from the Linos’ six-yard line, Mertz took the shotgun snap, shuffled back twice and lofted a pass to the back corner of the end zone. Waiting there in single coverage: former Wisconsin wide receiver Quintez Cephus.

Cephus bested the Lions’ cornerback and came down with the football. The reception was by far the most impactful of his four on the day. For players in Mertz and Cephus, each looking to make a final push for a roster spot, the highlight touchdown should help to lead their respective cases.

As mentioned, Mertz is in a battle with former Pitt and USC quarterback Kedon Slovis for the Texans’ third-string job. Slovis also fared well against the Lions, completing 11 of 16 passes for 111 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Mertz still appears to have the upper hand at that roster spot, given he was given the first half of Saturday’s matchup. His performance in that extended time was important after he struggled mightily in his first NFL appearance.

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Cephus, meanwhile, is currently listed as a fourth-string on the Texans’ depth chart. He joined the team right before the preseason, making the push for a spot on the 53-man roster a significant challenge. Since the former Badger also excelled for the franchise during last year’s preseason, a practice squad spot appears the likely outcome.

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This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Graham Mertz throws preseason touchdown former Badger Quintez Cephus