Browns vs. Texans preview: 3 things to know about Cleveland’s next opponent’s quarterback situation…

The Browns, having secured a crucial victory against the Bears, maintain control of their playoff destiny and now face the Texans on Christmas Eve. Despite Joe Flacco’s three interceptions, he bounced back with 374 yards and two touchdowns. The Texans, without C.J. Stroud, improved to 8-6 in overtime against the Titans, with Case Keenum, a former Browns quarterback, contributing 229 yards and a touchdown.

Here are three key aspects to consider about the Texans:

1. C.J. Stroud’s Impact:
   • C.J. Stroud, the second pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has emerged as a standout rookie quarterback, currently third in passing yards (3,631), sixth in quarterback rating (98.5), and tied for ninth in touchdowns (20).
   • Stroud’s remarkable poise and performance have been instrumental in the Texans’ playoff contention at 8-6.
   • While currently in the concussion protocol, Stroud’s potential return would significantly boost the Texans, highlighting him as the franchise’s future quarterback.

CJ STROUD TO NOAH BROWN 75-YARD TOUCHDOWN.

📺: #TBvsHOU on CBS
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/d4RDZpcMkc pic.twitter.com/Z6Ng2Ck8Ov

— NFL (@NFL) November 5, 2023

1. Noah Brown’s Contribution:
   • The Texans, facing injuries in their receiving corps, have found support in former Buckeye Noah Brown.
   • Despite playing only eight games, Brown ranks third in Texans’ receiving yards with 521, making impactful contributions in critical matchups.

Playing alongside Stroud, another former Buckeye, Brown has provided a reliable target and stepped up in pivotal games.

Not a bad outcome for your first career interception 😅

📺: #NOvsHOU on FOX
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/B4mQvLOt8O pic.twitter.com/TIHVebjn7h

— NFL (@NFL) October 15, 2023

1. Protecting the Ball:
   • Stroud set an NFL record with 191 consecutive passes without an interception to start his career.
   • The Texans lead the league in fewest giveaways (11), showcasing a remarkable ability to protect the football.
   • Despite a recent interception by Keenum, ending a streak of three turnover-free games, the Texans’ commitment to ball security has been a key factor in their playoff contention.

In summary, the Texans, led by the promising rookie Stroud, have demonstrated resilience and effectiveness, overcoming challenges in their receiving corps and excelling in protecting the football. As they aim for a playoff spot with three games remaining, their performance against the Browns will be a crucial test of their postseason aspirations.