UPDATE: C.J. Stroud’s performance in the first half of the Houston Texans’ divisional round playoff game against the New England Patriots has sent shockwaves through the NFL. Just moments ago, Stroud threw a staggering four interceptions in the first 30 minutes, leading to a 21-10 deficit at halftime.
Stroud completed only 10 of 26 passes for 124 yards and a touchdown, making this one of the most challenging halves in playoff history. After initially giving the Texans a 10-7 lead in the second quarter, his mistakes spiraled the game out of control, as three interceptions followed a touchdown pass.
This nightmarish first half ties Stroud with eight other quarterbacks for the most interceptions thrown in a playoff game since Jake Delhomme of the Carolina Panthers threw five in 2008. Stroud’s performance is only the second instance since 1991 where a quarterback has thrown four interceptions in a single playoff half, following Trevor Lawrence‘s infamous outing in January 2023.
The Texans’ woes intensified when running back Woody Marks fumbled, marking their fifth turnover of the game. Stroud’s fourth interception, an errant pass intended for receiver Xavier Hutchinson, set the stage for the Patriots’ momentum shift.
“It was a tough outing for C.J.,” said Texans’ head coach, reflecting on the quarterback’s struggles. “We have faith he can bounce back.”
Patriots cornerback Carlton Davis capitalized on Stroud’s mistakes, securing two of the interceptions, including a crucial pick-six that shifted the score to 14-10 in favor of New England. Stroud’s second interception occurred right after the Texans’ defense forced a punt, highlighting the critical moments that have defined this playoff matchup.
Despite the shaky start, the Texans opted to keep Stroud in the game after halftime. He managed to lead the team on a field goal drive, narrowing the Patriots’ lead to 21-13, but not without close calls. A potential fifth interception loomed when Stroud nearly threw a pass intercepted by Marcus Jones, which narrowly missed its target.
As the game progresses, NFL fans are left in disbelief at Stroud’s drastic drop in performance. The Texans must rally to recover from this situation if they hope to secure their first-ever AFC title game berth. The urgency of the moment is palpable as Stroud fights to regain his confidence.
What happens next in this playoff saga will be critical for Stroud and the Texans. Fans are eager to see if he can turn around this challenging game and lead his team to victory against the Patriots.