time cleveland browns blew away houston texans In Week 16, Case Keenum became the starting quarterback, replacing injured rookie star CJ Stroud. The intrigue surrounding the NFL Wild Card rematch was how Stroud would fare against one of the league's best defenses.
He was almost perfect.
In an impressive performance, Stroud completed 16 of 21 for 274 yards, three touchdowns, zero sacks, zero turnovers, and a 98.4 QBR.Best record in a playoff game since Josh Allen in 2021.) in a 45-14 Texans romp. The Browns' defense, which allowed the fewest passing yards in the NFL, was shattered by a player likely to be the Offensive Rookie of the Year. He tied the playoff record for most touchdown passes in a single game by a rookie quarterback and is currently the youngest quarterback to win an NFL playoff game.
Ironically, the only way Stroud could truly be stopped was through his own defense. Joe Flacco's two touchdown-interceptions in the third quarter increased Houston's lead from 24-14 to 38-14, but it also meant Stroud was off the field for exactly 10 minutes. I meant it. Stroud threw only five passes in the second half and was replaced by Davis Mills with nine minutes left. Houston's offense played just 44 snaps (38 with Stroud) and scored 31 points.
The Browns defense picked up a tie this weekend. Minimum explosive play allowed (20 yards or more), while the Texans were fourth in generating explosive passes. Advantage Stroud completed five explosive passes (all in the first half). He could have scored seven points if not for an early possession drop by tight end Dalton Schultz and a potential touchdown run by star receiver Nico Collins in the second quarter.
Stroud connected with Collins early and often, hanging in the pocket and making tough throws under pressure. When pressured, he completed 7 of 8 for 118 yards.meanwhile Collins made five of his six catches against Cleveland's man coverage..
Texans rookie CJ Stroud showed off his ability to throw promisingly on first down against Nico Collins.
The No. 2 pick out of Ohio State is a top-10 QB in the NFL this season. pic.twitter.com/d3D9VdChzD
— Seven Rounds In Heaven (@7RoundsInHeaven) January 13, 2024
Meanwhile, Schultz made up for his exit just before halftime by sneaking behind Cleveland's secondary with 20 seconds left and scoring a 37-yard touchdown.
The No. 2 overall pick has been sensational all season, so much so that there's no need for a “rookie” qualifier. After his stellar performance against Cleveland, it feels inevitable that Stroud will become the first Texans quarterback with multiple postseason wins. It's not inconceivable that this could happen as early as next week in the AFC divisional round.
