Texans QB Stroud Remains in Concussion Protocol: What This Means for His Upcoming Battle Against the Bills

C.J. Stroud Out for Texans vs. Bills

C.J. Stroud, the quarterback for the Houston Texans, will not play against the Buffalo Bills this Thursday. Coach DeMeco Ryans shared that Stroud hasn’t passed concussion protocol yet. He did practice a bit on Tuesday but needs more time to recover.

Safety Jalen Pitre will also sit out. He’s been recovering from a concussion since Week 9 and practiced this week but didn’t clear protocol either. Ryans noted that with the quick turnaround to Thursday, there wasn’t enough time for either player to be ready.

“Both guys are progressing, but they won’t be available this week,” Ryans said.

This will mark Stroud’s third consecutive game missed. Backup quarterback Davis Mills has stepped in successfully, winning both games against the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tennessee Titans. Mills has led the offense to an average of 22.5 points per game, throwing three touchdowns and just one interception during this stretch.

The Texans, once struggling at 0-3, are now even at 5-5 and in the thick of the playoff race. They sit at No. 8 in the AFC, just trailing the Jacksonville Jaguars for the last wild-card spot.

The game on Thursday holds significant playoff implications. A win for the Texans would not only give them the head-to-head advantage over the Bills—currently ranked No. 5 in the AFC—but also boost their playoff odds. Right now, Houston’s chances stand at 26%. Victory would raise that to about 37%, while a loss could drop it down to 15%.

According to a recent survey by ESPN Analytics, many fans are optimistic about the Texans’ playoff chances. This renewed hope is reflected in social media, where fans are buzzing about Mills’ performance and the team’s resilience.

As football continues to evolve, the importance of player safety is increasingly in focus. The NFL recently introduced stricter concussion protocols, a move supported by experts who emphasize player health. According to the CDC, concussions can have serious long-term effects, making these protocols crucial.

In conclusion, while the Texans will miss key players this week, they have shown they can adapt and compete at a high level. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how Mills leads the team against Buffalo.

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