What happened: C.J. Stroud completed 9 of 11 passes for 146 yards and two touchdowns to record a maximum 158.3 passer rating. The early surge included a 12-yard scoring strike to Nico Collins to open the scoring. Stroud averaged 13.3 yards per pass attempt without committing a turnover.
Why it matters: PFF ranked Stroud second among all NFL quarterbacks entering Week 11 following an AFC Offensive Player of the Week honor. Houston entered Sunday at 3-5 and sitting 11th in the AFC standings. Sustained top-tier quarterback play remains essential if the Texans are to mount a second-half run into the postseason picture.
By the numbers: Stroud in 2026 through eight games: 181-of-282 passing, 2,251 yards, 16 touchdowns, and two interceptions. He entered Sunday tied for the NFL lead with four 300-yard passing games.
What to watch: Houston aims to finish out the road contest in Cleveland to improve its standing in the AFC playoff race. Stroud will look to maintain his turnover-free pace through the remainder of the afternoon.