Texans QB C.J. Stroud is cleared for Sunday's crucial AFC South showdown against the Colts, boosting the team's playoff hopes after a three-game absence.
In news that will send a wave of relief and excitement through the Houston Texans' fan base, star quarterback C.J. Stroud has officially cleared the NFL's concussion protocol and is confirmed to start in the team's pivotal AFC South matchup against the Indianapolis Colts this Sunday, (November 30th).
The official news was broken by ESPN's NFL insider Adam Schefter on Friday, following a lengthy recovery process that saw the young signal-caller miss the last three games.
Back Under Center for the Division Race
Stroud, who has been sidelined since suffering a concussion in a loss against the Denver Broncos on November 2nd, had been progressing steadily through the protocol. His return to full practice this week signaled that a return was imminent, and the final clearance solidifies his presence for the must-win division rival battle.
"Texans HC DeMeco Ryans told reporters that C.J. Stroud, who has missed the last three games while in concussion protocol, will start Sunday vs. the Colts," Schefter reported.
The quarterback's return comes at the perfect time. The 6-5 Texans have managed to go 3-0 in Stroud's absence, largely thanks to a stingy defense and steady play from backup Davis Mills. However, the 8-3 Indianapolis Colts currently lead the AFC South, and this Sunday’s game represents a massive opportunity for the Texans to tighten the division race.
Texans' Offense Gets a Boost
Stroud's presence is a monumental boost to the Texans' offense, which has relied more heavily on the running game and defense over the past few weeks. Before his injury, Stroud was in the midst of a breakout season, showcasing his arm talent and impressive command of the offense. His season totals include 1,702 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and five interceptions in the eight games he has played.
The Colts secondary has been the unit's main concern, ranking a low 28th in the league in passing yards allowed per game.2 C.J. Stroud's return makes this a key area the Texans will try to exploit.
Despite the high passing yards allowed, the Colts have generated 16 total turnovers (11 interceptions and 5 fumble recoveries) through 11 games. This ability to get takeaways is a major factor in their positive turnover differential and their strong standing in points allowed. So the Texans will need to balance the run game with the air attack.
Stroud vs. Colts Defense
This matchup will be a test for Stroud's mobility and decision-making right after returning from a concussion. The Colts’ defense, while ranked 22nd in yards allowed per game, is well-coached and opportunistic. Stroud will need to rely on his excellent chemistry with receivers like Nico Collins to stretch the field and exploit any seams in the Indianapolis secondary.
The Texans' offense, which struggled at times with Stroud on the sideline, will need to be efficient against a Colts team that is favored by 3.5 points at home. The return of Stroud not only provides a statistical upgrade but also an emotional lift for a Texans squad hungry to make a playoff run.
A victory in Indianapolis would not only mark a crucial step toward a division title but also send a loud message to the rest of the AFC that the Texans, led by their fully healthy franchise quarterback, are a legitimate threat.