Stroud-less Texans fall 36-22 to visiting Browns

The Houston Texans faced another week without the services of rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, resulting in a 36-22 home loss to the Cleveland Browns. Veteran backup Case Keenum was once again thrust into the starting role when it was determined that Stroud, last year's second overall selection, wasn't ready to clear concussion protocol.

According to Sports Illustrated, this defeat against the Browns is a significant setback for the Texans' playoff hopes. A victory would have secured Houston's place in the playoffs; however, they now have to wait until their final matchup against division rivals Indianapolis for another shot at postseason glory.

Sports Illustrated further reported that the Browns defense successfully limited Keenum, who had previously starred at the nearby University of Houston before turning professional, to single-digit passing on the afternoon.

As per reports from The Texans' website, their latter points were essentially scored after it became evident that Cleveland was set to secure its tenth win of the season despite going through a carousel of quarterbacks. Former Super Bowl Most Valuable Player (MVP) Joe Flacco was the latest to go under center for the surprising Browns. Flacco spent most of his afternoon playing catch with wideout Amari Cooper, including a 75-yard touchdown pass in the first drive of the game.

CBS Sports reported that Flacco managed to shred his hosts for 368 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. The biggest highlight for Houston during this contest was a nearly 100-yard touchdown return by second-year rusher Dameon Pierce.