Stroud and Texans Set to Face Titans Amidst Challenges

Stroud Unfazed by Criticism

HOUSTON – C.J. Stroud remains unshaken by the negative remarks regarding his performance this season, as he has thrown more interceptions in just 11 games than in his entire rookie campaign of 15 starts. Despite the mounting pressure, Stroud insists he will not alter his approach to the game.

“Shooters have to shoot,” Stroud declared, echoing his commitment to a bold style of play. “You live by the sword; you die by the sword. I’m going to keep playing my way—making throws with anticipation and executing no-look passes. I’m here to enjoy the game. If throwing more picks is part of the journey to victory, then so be it.”

As the Texans (7-4) prepare for a pivotal matchup against the Tennessee Titans (2-8) in the AFC South, Stroud has recorded seven interceptions so far this year, compared to five in his rookie season. The Titans boast a formidable defense, allowing a mere 164.6 passing yards per game, presenting another significant challenge for Stroud.

Offensive Challenges for the Texans

In his last three games, Stroud has managed just one touchdown pass but has thrown three interceptions, a stark contrast to the previous three games where he threw four touchdowns with only one interception. Titans’ head coach Brian Callahan suggests that Stroud’s struggles may partially stem from the absence of key offensive players earlier in the season.

While running back Joe Mixon was sidelined for three games due to an ankle injury, top receiver Nico Collins just returned last week after missing five games with a hamstring issue. Nevertheless, Callahan praised Stroud’s ability to lead the Texans’ offense, expressing respect for his talent.

“Regardless of his statistics this season, I see the player and the skills. He’s capable of throwing for 350 yards any time he steps onto the field,” Callahan commented, highlighting the ongoing challenge for his team.

Mixon’s Stellar Performance

Mixon has been a standout in his inaugural season with the Texans following a trade from Cincinnati. He excelled in Monday’s game, accumulating 153 yards of offense and scoring three touchdowns, marking his season high. To date, Mixon has recorded over 100 rushing yards in six of his eight games this season, averaging 95.5 yards per game—ranking him third in the NFL behind Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry.

“He’s incredibly talented with the ball,” Stroud stated, showcasing his admiration for the running back’s abilities.

Levis Demonstrating Growth

On the Titans’ side, quarterback Will Levis, selected 33rd overall in the 2023 draft from Kentucky, is under scrutiny as the team looks ahead to potential draft picks with the second overall slot. Although he has not yet won a game this season in which he was both the starter and finish, Levis has made noticeable strides since returning from a shoulder injury.

Over the past few outings, Levis has achieved a completion rate of 64.8%, totaling 470 yards with three touchdown passes and only one interception. Additionally, he has utilized his mobility effectively, scrambling 12 times for 59 yards. These statistics would arguably be even more impressive if not for penalties erasing substantial gains. Notably, Levis also recorded the longest touchdown pass of the NFL season—a remarkable 98-yard catch to teammate Nick Westbrook-Ikhine.

Anderson’s Anticipated Return

Defensive end Will Anderson, who received last season’s AP Defensive Rookie of the Year award, is expected to make his comeback this week after recovering from an ankle injury that kept him sidelined for two games. His presence will significantly bolster a Texans pass rush that ranks fifth in the NFL, with 34 sacks. Anderson has a career-high of 7½ sacks this season, tying with Danielle Hunter for the team’s lead while also boasting 11 tackles for loss (TFLs) which ranks him sixth in the league.

Titans’ O-Line Struggles

A glaring issue for the Titans has been their right tackle position, which has struggled both in run blocking and pass protection. Since his return, Levis has faced 27 sacks this season, including 12 since coming back from injury. The Titans have cycled through several players at right tackle, with Nicholas Petit-Frere starting last week while Isaiah Prince also received significant snaps. Unfortunately, Prince was penalized for illegal formations, negating a 51-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Ridley and reflecting the ongoing struggles with continuity on the line.

“It’s frustrating to find a consistent lineup,” Callahan acknowledged, noting the challenges they face while being coached by his father, Bill Callahan, a respected offensive line expert. “It has simply been difficult to establish stability and consistency.”