DeMeco Ryans’ Texans lose their third consecutive Divisional playoff game, losing 16-28  to the New England Patriots. 

The game was highlighted by two young quarterbacks on both sides, making multiple mistakes. While Drake Maye fumbled four times, C.J. Stroud threw four interceptions in the game. 

Maye and DeMario Douglas started strong with a 28-yard touchdown in the first quarter. The Texans had a chance to settle the score, but had to settle for a field goal due to a controversial illegal shift penalty decision by the referee. 

Stroud threw four interceptions in the first half. Houston’s defense kept itself in the game, as the Patriots only converted one touchdown. Will Anderson Jr. had an incredible showing, recording 3 sacks and a couple of tackles for loss. Despite his best efforts, New England finished the first half on top with the score of 10-21. 

The Texans made a strong comeback in the third quarter, rushing for more yards in a single play than they had at that time. Ka’imi Fairbairn converted a 25-yard field goal to make it 13-21. He then made it a five-point game, converting a 51-yard field goal again, going into the last quarter.

Just as it looked like Houston was growing back into the game, the Patriots struck back. Maye scored his third touchdown, with Kayshon Boutte catching a ridiculous 32-yard pass with one hand to take a 12-point lead. Texans didn't score any points, ultimately breaking their ten-game unbeaten streak.

Disappointing Outing for the Quarterbacks

The matchup between the Texans and the Patriots was full of turnovers, missed catches, and interceptions. However, the Patriots' QB had more success.

While Maye ‌scored three touchdown passes in the game, he only threw for 179 passing yards. Not only that, the 23-year-old conceded an interception and got sacked five times. However, his team's strong overall performance helped overcome his errors. 

The same can’t be said about Stroud, though, as he continued his disappointing postseason performance. In the regular season, the 24-year-old threw only eight interceptions. However, taking both the Wild Card and the Divisional playoff, Stroud threw 5 interceptions alone. 

Against New England, he scored only one touchdown for 212 passing yards. He was sacked thrice and‌ intercepted four times, resulting in Houston’s seventh divisional playoff loss since their NFL debut in 2002. 

Written by

Kalp Thaker

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi