C.J. Stroud is set to make his highly anticipated return this Sunday as the Houston Texans face off against the Indianapolis Colts, marking a crucial game in the Texans’ season. After sidelining for three games due to a concussion, Stroud’s return has sparked some debate among fans regarding the quarterback lineup, with a vocal minority advocating for backup Davis Mills to retain his starting position following a series of wins in Stroud’s absence.
This narrative mirrors recent discussions in the league, notably highlighted by Fox Sports analyst Tom Brady. He controversially suggested a similar approach for the San Francisco 49ers, where Mac Jones could replace Brock Purdy after returning from injury, citing the “hot hand theory.” While the theory has merit in some contexts, it doesn’t apply uniformly across all players. Stroud, widely recognized as the franchise quarterback for the Texans, brings a higher potential ceiling compared to Mills, underscoring why head coach DeMeco Ryans is committed to his return as the starter.
Ryans confirmed Stroud’s role as the team’s leader when he stated, “Whenever C.J. is back, ready to roll, he’s been our starter.” Stroud’s impressive track record this season—with 1,029 passing yards, nine touchdowns, and only two interceptions prior to his injury—further justifies Ryans’ decision. Notably, Stroud’s performance saw an upward trend just before his concussion, showcasing his ability to lift the offense even amidst challenges.
Mills played well during Stroud’s absence, leading the Texans to a commendable 3-0 record. His numbers reflect steady contributions with 856 passing yards and five touchdowns over those games. While Mills’s efforts kept the Texans afloat, reducing the pressure on the defense, Stroud’s return is poised to elevate the team’s performance against the Colts, who currently sit two games ahead in the AFC South standings.
Stroud’s previous success against Indianapolis, including a standout performance in last year’s regular-season finale, reinforces the Texans’ confidence in him. He boasts a 3-1 career record against the Colts with seven touchdowns and no interceptions. The stakes are high this Sunday, as a victory could not only tighten the race for the AFC South but also position the Texans favorably for a wild-card berth.
Both coaches and players acknowledge the importance of improving their offensive execution, especially after a lackluster second half against the Buffalo Bills last week. Stroud’s ability to make crucial plays and deliver the ball accurately translates to a greater potential for the Texans to clinch a win against a formidable Colts offense.
As the Texans look to close the gap in their division and potentially secure a playoff spot, Stroud’s leadership and talent are crucial components for their success. The team’s top-ranked defense will also play a significant role as they aim to shut down the Colts’ high-powered offensive attack. With the combined efforts of Stroud and a reinvigorated offense, the Texans are set to make a strong push in this pivotal matchup and continue striving for a successful season.