MVP CJ? The rookie for the Texans is still amazing and going above and beyond.
55 yards, six plays, and a field goal. On Sunday, C.J. Stroud led the Houston Texans on a game-winning drive that resulted in a last-second kick by Matt Ammendola that gave the team a 30-27 victory in Cincinnati. The offence, which is being led by rookie quarterback Ryan Stroud, who is brewing something special in his first NFL season, was given 544 yards by the Bengals, one of the best teams in the AFC the last two seasons.
With his tenacious performance on Sunday, which included 23/39 passing for 356 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, Stroud solidified his position as the front-runner for Offensive Rookie of the Year. Furthermore, if Houston continues to defy the odds, the 22-year-old might even find himself nominated for MVP this winter.
C.J. in control Despite his youth, Stuart maintains an air of composure and maturity. In the second quarter, he found rookie wide receiver Tank Dell for a touchdown pass; halfway through the third quarter at Paycor Stadium, the Texans had established a 20-7 lead.
But Joe Burrow and the Bengals responded, and with ninety seconds left, Cincinnati tied the game at 27. This prepared the pitch for Stroud, who ultimately turned the ball over three times but was able to overcome his difficulties just in time.
The Houston Texans have won five games this season, the most since 2019—during Deshaun Watson’s tenure as starting quarterback. Stroud guided the team down the field for its second overtime victory in as many weeks.
The Texans’ victory improved their record to 5-4, while the Jaguars’ humiliating 34-3 loss at home dropped their record to 6-3. As the second half of the season approaches, Houston is now just one game out of first place in the AFC South and is definitely in the running for the postseason.
In Week 11, the Texans take on the depressing Arizona Cardinals, and a victory is anticipated. In their second meeting with the Jaguars this season, which takes place in Week 12, Stroud could lead them to the top of the standings. And given what Stroud has already accomplished, winning a surprising division and making it back to the postseason are both plausible outcomes.
