The intensity of the Week 18 matchup between the Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts has resonated in both cities and among their fan bases. They have taken to social media and radio to discuss the keys to victory for each team.
The Colts’ win over the Texans in Week 2 does not predict the outcome of this matchup, as it occurred nearly four months ago. Both head coaches have acknowledged that their teams have developed over the season in various press conferences this week.
One thing that is certain is that Houston will enter the game with confidence, knowing that rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud has the potential to lead them to victory and secure a playoff spot, defying preseason expectations.
Wide receiver Nico Collins expressed his confidence in Stroud, stating, “It feels good to have him back. He knows what he has to do to lead this team to victory.”
Collins added, “With the game being played in a prime-time television spot (7 p.m. CST), all eyes will be on who many believe will be the 2023 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in Stroud.”
Texans QB C.J. Stroud on his game plan input:
“I feel like for everybody – year one to year 15, whatever that is – protecting the ball puts trust into your coordinator that he can call a play, and if it’s not there, you’ll be smart with it and not make a bad play worse.” #Sarge pic.com/h2F0uxXpkW
Indianapolis recognizes Stroud’s capabilities, having faced him earlier in the season. Colts defensive coordinator Gus Bradley praised Stroud’s talent and poise, acknowledging that he plays above the level of a rookie.
Heading into Saturday’s game, Stroud will have more freedom in calling plays, reflecting his growth and maturity as a quarterback over the season.
Stroud stated, “Yeah, we have a good mixture of conversation and input that we get to put in there for the gameplan. I’ve been trying to get more involved and things like that, and it’s just a conversation going between the quarterback room and Bobby [Slowik] and stuff like that.”