Davis Mills Starting at QB for Texans Possible with Stroud Concussed
The Houston Texans faced not only a disheartening 30-6 loss to the Jets on Sunday but also the unsettling loss of their starting quarterback, C.J. Stroud, who suffered a concussion during the game. The aftermath revealed that Stroud had entered the league’s concussion protocol, preventing him from meeting with the media post-game, as per league policy for concussed players.
As the Texans enter the upcoming week’s practice sessions and injury reports, the status of Stroud remains uncertain. If he remains in the concussion protocol by Wednesday, media interactions will be limited, leaving observers without insights into his recovery progress or potential clearance for the upcoming game against the Titans.
Losing Stroud, even temporarily, could have significant implications for the Texans’ postseason aspirations, particularly considering his integral role on the team. The quarterback’s absence may force the Texans to turn to their backup, Davis Mills, who has been in a supporting role throughout the season.
Mills’ limited playing time, with only seven passes thrown this season, leaves uncertainties about his readiness to step into a starting position. Despite his potential growth under offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, who has received praise for Stroud’s development, Mills faces skepticism from some fans who, according to a poll on social media, prefer emergency quarterback Case Keenum over him.
Should Stroud be unavailable for the upcoming game, Slowik, who has earned recognition for Stroud’s rapid progress, faces a substantial challenge. Acknowledging the team’s struggles, including injuries to key players like Tank Dell and potentially Nico Collins, along with Stroud’s uncertain status, Slowik must devise an effective offensive strategy to secure touchdowns against the Titans.
#Penderpoll … if CJ Stroud can’t go this weekend, I’m guessing Davis Mills will start vs the Titans. That said, who would you RATHER start in that game — Mills or Case Keenum?
VOTE:
— Sean Pendergast (@SeanTPendergast) December 11, 2023
The absence of high-level weapons, including Dalton Schultz, coupled with injuries, adds complexity to Slowik’s task. Despite his potential inclusion on future head coach “hot lists,” Slowik’s coaching prowess will be tested if he can orchestrate a winning offensive game plan with Mills as the quarterback and a roster missing key contributors. This scenario would truly showcase Slowik’s coaching capabilities amid adversity and depleted resources.
As the Texans navigate the challenges of potential quarterback unavailability and a depleted roster, the upcoming game against the Titans presents a critical test for the team’s resilience and the coaching acumen of Bobby Slowik.
Leave a Reply