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On Saturday at 3:30 p.m., Houston Texans' rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud aims to enhance his burgeoning reputation by steering the franchise towards its inaugural American Football Conference championship game against the Baltimore Ravens. The Texans have reached this juncture after vanquishing the Cleveland Browns in a 45-31 victory to commence the 2023 National Football League (NFL) playoffs.
Under Stroud's leadership and with DeMeco Ryans at the helm, the Texans have consistently surprised observers throughout the season. Few anticipated their progress this far into what was predicted to be another challenging year of rebuilding. According to an article on the Texans’ website, Stroud made his professional debut against these very Ravens back in September. The 22-year-old is hopeful of securing his first career triumph over this team. As per records from the Football Reference website, Stroud, who was chosen second overall in 2023, achieved 242 passing yards but no touchdowns in the season opener.
After what some perceived as a promising debut, Stroud proceeded to deliver a performance unlike any other seen before. Despite being barely old enough to rent a car, this former Ohio State University signal-caller has been featured twice at the Pro Football Hall of Fame Museum. He concluded his first NFL year with just over 4,100 yards through the air, resulting in 23 touchdowns and five interceptions, according to Football Reference.
Despite initial criticism for not opting for the top pick, the Texans are now widely lauded for selecting Stroud, who hails from California.
The Texans franchise has been operational since 2002 but has yet to reach a conference championship. Although division titles have been secured since 2011, Houston – even under its previous guise as the Oilers – has never won the right to represent AFC in the grand finale.