C.J. Stroud Returns as Texans Face Division-Leading Colts in Crucial AFC South Clash
HOUSTON - C.J. Stroud is back under center, and the timing couldn’t be more critical for the Houston Texans.
After missing the last three games in concussion protocol, the rookie quarterback is set to start today in a high-stakes AFC South matchup against the first-place Indianapolis Colts. Kickoff is at noon CT from Lucas Oil Stadium.
While Stroud was sidelined, backup Davis Mills stepped in and did more than just hold the line - he led the Texans to three straight wins, pushing Houston back above .500 and right into the thick of the playoff race. Now, with Stroud cleared and ready to go, the Texans are hoping to ride that momentum into what could be a season-defining showdown.
Houston Getting Healthier at the Right Time
It’s not just Stroud making his return. Safety Jalen Pitre has also cleared concussion protocol and is expected to suit up. Defensive end Will Anderson Jr., who was limited during the week with a chest injury, practiced Friday and is good to go, according to head coach DeMeco Ryans, who simply said, “Will is fine.”
At 6-5, the Texans trail both the Jaguars (7-4) and Colts (8-3) in the AFC South. But with two head-to-head matchups remaining against Indianapolis, Houston has a clear path to climb the standings - starting today.
What’s on the Line
This one’s big. If the playoffs started today, the Texans would be on the outside looking in.
But a win would cut the Colts’ division lead in half and give Houston its fourth straight victory - both overall and in this head-to-head series. The Texans have had the upper hand recently, winning three straight against Indy and capturing the last two AFC South titles.
A win today doesn’t just keep the Texans in the division hunt - it also strengthens their case in the wild-card picture, especially with the defense playing its best football of the season.
Defense Dialing Up the Pressure
Houston’s defense has been the driving force behind the recent surge. Last week, they sacked Buffalo’s Josh Allen eight times - a career-high for Allen - and made life miserable for one of the league’s top quarterbacks.
Now they’ll look to keep that heat coming against Colts quarterback Daniel Jones, who’s been struggling under pressure. Jones has turned the ball over seven times and been sacked 15 times in his last four games. He’s also dealing with a sore lower leg, but he’s set to start.
If Houston’s front can keep collapsing the pocket, it could be another long afternoon for Jones - and another big step forward for a Texans team that’s finding its identity on defense.
Players to Watch
Texans - S Calen Bullock:
The rookie safety is coming off a breakout performance, forcing a fumble and grabbing two interceptions - including the game-sealer against Buffalo.
He’s the only player in the NFL this season to record two picks and a forced fumble in a single game. With Pitre back in the mix, Houston’s secondary is suddenly looking like a real strength.
Colts - QB Daniel Jones:
Jones will be under the microscope again today.
He’s taken a beating behind a shaky offensive line and now faces a Texans pass rush that’s been punishing quarterbacks. With his mobility limited by the leg issue, how he handles pressure will go a long way in determining how this one plays out.
Key Matchup: Nico Collins vs. Sauce Gardner
This could be the matchup that swings the game. Nico Collins has been Houston’s most reliable pass-catcher this season, leading the team with 697 yards on 52 catches. And he’s had success against the Colts in the past.
But this time, he’ll see a heavy dose of Sauce Gardner. The Colts brought in the All-Pro corner at the trade deadline to shore up a struggling secondary, and today’s assignment is clear: slow down Collins. If Gardner can limit Houston’s top target, it could force Stroud to look elsewhere in his return.
Injury Report
Texans:
- QB C.J.
Stroud (concussion protocol) - Cleared, expected to start
- S Jalen Pitre (concussion protocol) - Cleared, expected to return
Colts:
- QB Daniel Jones - Playing through a sore lower leg
- WR Ashton Dulin - Placed on IR (hamstring)
- DT Neville Gallimore (knee), CB Sauce Gardner (back), QB Daniel Jones - All limited in practice Wednesday
- DT DeForest Buckner - Still on IR with a neck injury
By the Numbers
- Texans have covered the spread in 5 of 11 games (5-6), while the Colts are 7-3-1 ATS
- Colts are a perfect 5-0 at home this season
- Houston has won three straight games, reaching a winning record for the first time this year
- Texans have also won three straight in the head-to-head series
- Colts lead the all-time series 33-13-1
Kickoff Info
- Matchup: Texans at Colts
- Time: Noon CT
- Location: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis
- TV: KHOU 11
With Stroud back, the defense firing on all cylinders, and the division picture still wide open, the Texans have everything to play for. This isn’t just another game - it’s a chance to make a statement.