CJ Stroud Struggles Early as Texans Fall Behind in Divisional Round
HOUSTON - CJ Stroud’s rookie season has been defined by poise, precision, and a preternatural ability to avoid mistakes. But in the first half of the Texans’ divisional round clash against the Patriots, that script was flipped on its head.
Stroud threw four interceptions before halftime - including a pick-six - as Houston stumbled into the locker room trailing 21-10 in Foxborough. It was a stunning turn for a quarterback who had been so composed all year long, especially considering how cleanly he’d protected the football throughout his rookie campaign.
Let’s put it into perspective: Stroud began his NFL career by setting a league record with 192 pass attempts without an interception. That’s not just a stat - it’s a statement.
It told us this was a young quarterback who saw the field clearly, made smart decisions, and didn’t force the issue. But in this playoff spotlight, against a Patriots defense that thrives on confusion and capitalizing on mistakes, the rookie finally looked like a rookie.
Even with the four turnovers, the Texans remained within striking distance at halftime, down just 11. That’s a testament to their defense keeping the game from spiraling and an offense that still managed to move the ball between the miscues. But make no mistake - four picks in one half is a steep hill to climb, especially in the postseason.
Now, to be clear, Stroud didn’t tie or break the NFL playoff record for interceptions in a game. That dubious honor still belongs to three quarterbacks, most recently Brett Favre, who tossed six in a 2002 playoff game against the Rams. Before Favre, you have to go all the way back to the 1950s, when legends like Norm Van Brocklin (1955) and Bobby Layne (1954) each had six-interception games of their own.
So while Stroud’s first half was rough, it wasn’t historically catastrophic. And considering the way he’s played all season, it’s not out of the question for him to regroup and respond - especially if the Texans can keep it close.
This game may not be over, but one thing’s clear: playoff football has a way of testing even the most promising young stars. Stroud’s first real postseason adversity is here. Now we’ll see how he answers.