C.J. Stroud had nearly flawless NFL Playoffs debut in every way

When the blew out the in Week 16, Case Keenum was the starting quarterback in place of the injured rookie star C.J. Stroud. The intrigue surrounding the NFL Wild Card rematch was how Stroud . He was nearly perfect. In an electrifying performance, Stroud finished 16 of 21 for 274 yards, three touchdowns, zero sacks taken, zero turnovers, and a 98.4 QBR ( ) in a 45 14 Texans romp.

A Browns defense that had allowed the fewest passing yards in the NFL was shredded by the likely Offensive Rookie of the Year. He tied the playoff record for most touchdown passes in a game by a rookie quarterback, and is now the youngest quarterback to win an NFL playoff game. Ironically, the only way Stroud could really be stopped was by his own defense.

While in the third quarter increased Houston’s lead from 24 14 to 38 14, it also meant that Stroud was off the field for exactly 10 minutes of game time. Stroud only threw five passes in the second half and was replaced by Davis Mills with nine minutes remaining. Houston’s offense only played 44 snaps (38 with Stroud in the game) and scored 31 points.

The Browns defense came into this weekend tied , whereas the Texans were 4th at generating explosive passes. Advantage Stroud, who completed five explosive passes (all in the 1st half). He should’ve had seven if not for an opening possession drop by tight end Dalton Schultz, as well as a second quarter overthrown would be touchdown to his star receiver Nico Collins.

Related Stroud connected with Collins early and often, hanging in the pocket and making tough throws under pressure. , while . Texans rookie CJ Stroud showing off his ability to throw with anticipation on this first down to Nico Collins. The No. 2 pick out of Ohio State has been a top 10 QB in the NFL this season.

Stroud to Collins connection is just getting started : on NBC : Stream on Meanwhile, Schultz atoned for his drop just before halftime by getting behind the Cleveland secondary on 2nd and 20 for a 37 yard touchdown. Stroud strikes again : on NBC : Stream on The No. 2 overall pick has been sensational all season, such that the qualifier “for a rookie” isn’t necessary.

After his sparkling performance against Cleveland, it feels inevitable that Stroud will become the first Texans QB with multiple postseason wins. It’s not inconceivable that it could happen as soon as next week in the AFC Divisional Round..