'He Has It!' Houston Texans' DeMeco Ryans Encouraged By C.J. Stroud Despite Loss in Week 5

Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans spoke about the special traits C.J. Stroud possesses, even if it wasn't enough to beat the Atlanta Falcons in Week 5.

The Houston Texans had a game-winning drive on their hands … until they didn’t.

Quarterback C.J. Stroud’s heroics were incredible and rightfully add optimism to an era of Houston football that is off to a promising start. With 75 yards to go and just under seven minutes to do so, Stroud orchestrated a drive, complete with seven rushes from running back Dameon Pierce and, ultimately, an 18-yard touchdown pass.

He would put the Texans up 19-18 with 1:49 to play. The Atlanta Falcons marched back down the field, at least close enough for kicker Younghoe Koe to get in range, and won in the game’s final seconds, 21-19.

The loss ends Houston’s memorable streak, but shouldn’t close the curtains on what has been an awesome opening month for Stroud.

Head coach DeMeco Ryans spoke on Monday about what he saw from his quarterback.

“It was very encouraging to see, C.J., a young quarterback, not flinch,” Ryans said. “Last drive of the game, we needed to go down and go score. He didn’t flinch. Operated with precision, everybody was on it. The ball placement, the decision making, just overall collected as an offense.”

Stroud attempts a pass against the Atlanta Falcons / Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Stroud completed three passes on his final drive for 46 yards and the not-so-decisive score. He also rushed two yards on a nifty quarterback sneak wrinkle on third-and-1.

The drive helped erase concern about struggles on preceding drives. He went 20-of-35 on the day for 249 yards and a score. Once again he avoided turning the ball over, but the offense was clearly not operating at its potential. Regardless, when it mattered most, Stroud showed up.

“It’s true poise from a young quarterback, and that’s what it takes to play the toughest position in sports,” Ryans said. “It takes poise, and he has it.”

Stroud’s demeanor and clutch performance shouldn’t surprise many, especially if they watched him take on the Georgia Bulldogs in the College Football Playoffs last season. That too resulted in a loss, but similar to Sunday’s action, not one that can be pinned on Stroud.

Week 5 was a soft reminder that this season could very well end up with disappointing win totals. Setting the foundation of the Ryans administration, headlined by Stroud, was always going to be the top priority. Competitive football, at this point, is an added bonus.