C.J. Stroud is just about set to make his highly anticipated return in Week 13 for the Houston Texans. He missed the final three games after getting concussed in Week 9. This return could not come at a more important time for the Texans. They are currently engaged in a fierce AFC playoff race, so Stroud’s play will be crucial to their hopes.
Stroud suffered his concussion during a narrow 18-15 loss to the Denver Broncos, leaving the Texans without their starting quarterback. In Watson’s absence, backup Davis Mills took control and guided the Texans to three straight wins. He tossed six TDs and just one INT over that stellar run. Rookie CJ Stroud has been well protected, and the Texans have done a masterful job of piecing together eight different starting offensive line combinations. The new starting unit features left tackle Aireontae Ersery and left guard Tytus Howard. Ed Ingram, Brown, and Center Jake Andrews, who was a finalist for the Remington Trophy, anchors the interior.
We didn’t start off the best. Changed from a full-fledged back-and-forth conversation to more of an interview format. We’re extremely talented,” Stroud said while looking ahead to being reunited with his offensive linemen.
Stroud has shown that he thrives under pressure. He’s proven he can be great with a passer rating of 98 when not under pressure from the defense, according to Next Gen Stats. His return will be important for the Texans on Sunday as they look for their first win of the season against the Indianapolis Colts. This upset will help their chances to make the playoffs and warm up the race for the AFC South title. If they can manage to sweep the Colts, their playoff odds might soar to 74%. For one, their probability of winning the division would increase to 40%.
“You see guys step up and start to take more on the plate and rise to the occasion,” Stroud noted, reflecting on his teammates’ performances during his absence.
Coach DeMeco Ryans praised Stroud’s contributions this season, mentioning that he has been effective in delivering the football accurately. “He’s played well for us. He’s done some really nice things when it comes to delivering the football where he needs to be. He’s one of the best in the league at doing that,” Ryans said. The 16th-year coach said he believed Stroud’s return could take the Cougars deeper in the playoffs.
In addition to Stroud’s individual performance, the Texans boast one of the league’s strongest defenses, allowing only 16.5 points and 264.3 yards per game—ranking second-fewest in both categories. The Texans have a pretty good defense and Stroud’s extraordinary offensive talents. As they head into the home stretch of the season, this skillful mix has them well poised for continued success.
Tytus Howard, who plays on the offensive line, acknowledged the recent improvements in their play: “All the guys up front have been playing pretty well as of late.” This improved protection will be key for Stroud as he returns to the starting lineup.
As Stroud rejoins his teammates in competition, a new eagerness forms within the Houston Texans organization and their supporters. His experience and talent will be needed as they’ll contend with powerhouses like Florida State and North Carolina in pursuit of an ACC playoff spot.
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