ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith offered a measured, skeptical take on Stroud’s playoff readiness, making it clear that while the talent is obvious, the proof still needs to come when the stakes are highest.

According to Stephen A., postseason football operates on a razor-thin margin for error. One poor decision, one late throw, or one lapse in ball security can abruptly end a season.

While Stroud has flashed brilliance, Smith points to moments where the quarterback put the ball in harm’s way, arguing that those are the exact opportunities elite playoff defenses are designed to exploit.

Against veteran units that disguise coverages and capitalize on hesitation, mistakes rarely go unpunished.

Smith remains cautiously unconvinced that Houston’s young star is ready to carry a team through the NFL’s toughest battles.