'Experience!' Texans Coach DeMeco Ryans Reveals Key to QB Case Keenum's Success

Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans discussed what has made quarterback Case Keenum successful in relief of the injured C.J. Stroud.

While the Houston Texans await the return of rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud from concussion protocol, they seem to have a capable fill-in with Case Keenum under center.

Keenum has been in the National Football League since the 2012 season following his collegiate career with the Houston Cougars. He was undrafted out of college, but his first team was the Texans from 2012-13 before bouncing between multiple franchises ahead of the 2023 season. 

It was this year that brought him back to Houston, and now he finds himself in the temporary starting quarterback role while Stroud heals from his injury. 

© Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK

In his first start of the season on Sunday against the Tennessee Titans, he threw for over 200 yards, one touchdown and one interception in the 19-16 win, and he was a big part of Houston's ability to win the game in overtime.

Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans discussed this week what has made Keenum successful in his runs with his team this season.

“The thing that’s helped Case [Keenum] the most I think is experience," Ryans said. "When you’ve played the position for such a long time, you have to have that experience. But it’s also that experience that gives you confidence. When you’ve done it multiple times, you’ve seen multiple defenses and how teams try to attack you, nothing should shock Case."

"He’s seen a little bit of everything. He’s calm, he does a great job of operating pre-snap. Does a great job of commanding the huddle and making the other guys around him better.”

Report: C.J. Stroud Expected to Be OUT vs. Browns

As of Wednesday, Stroud is still in concussion protocol, and reports from earlier in the week have stated that he is likely to miss this Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns as the Texans continue their hunt for a playoff berth.

Kickoff on Sunday is slated for 12 p.m. CT, and the game will be televised on CBS.