CJ Stroud Set to Return as Texans Eye Critical Week 13 Clash with Colts

The Houston Texans are preparing for a crucial Week 13 matchup against divisional rival Indianapolis Colts, and their starting quarterback is back in the lineup. CJ Stroud, sidelined for the past three games due to concussion protocol, will return under center after Davis Mills led the team to three straight wins. The announcement came from head coach DeMeco Ryans, confirming Stroud’s readiness for Sunday’s high-stakes contest.

Stroud’s return comes as the Texans trail the Colts by just two games with two matchups remaining against their AFC South rivals. Despite offensive inconsistencies earlier in the season, Houston’s defense and Mills’ late-season heroics kept the team competitive, including a dramatic primetime win over the Buffalo Bills.

While Stroud has yet to replicate the success of his rookie campaign in his third NFL season, his presence has the potential to elevate the offense. During his absence, the offensive line improved, showing a capacity to protect the team’s prized quarterback and provide a foundation for success.

Sunday’s game carries major playoff implications. The Texans currently have a 43% chance of making the postseason, and a win over the Colts would boost that probability to 61%, while a loss would drop it to 30%. With the division race tight, Stroud’s performance could determine Houston’s path down the stretch.

1. Stroud Returns After Concussion

CJ Stroud has missed the last three games due to concussion protocol, with Davis Mills stepping in admirably during his absence. Mills guided the Texans to a 3-0 record, highlighted by a primetime victory against the Bills, keeping Houston in contention. Head coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed that Stroud is healthy and will start against the Colts. The team has carefully monitored his recovery, emphasizing both his safety and readiness for the high-pressure matchup. Stroud’s presence brings a familiar dynamic back to the Texans’ offense. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and push the ball downfield will be critical against an Indianapolis defense that thrives on pressure and turnovers. The quarterback’s return is as much a morale boost as a strategic one. The Texans’ locker room has been energized by Mills’ wins, but having their No. 2 overall pick back provides renewed confidence heading into a pivotal divisional stretch.

2. Texans’ Playoff Stakes

Houston sits just two games behind the Colts in the AFC South, and the next two games between the rivals are crucial. A win on Sunday would swing the playoff outlook dramatically, while a loss would put the Texans in a steep hole. Currently, playoff projections give the Texans a 43% chance of reaching the postseason. A victory over Indy would push that to 61%, reflecting how tightly contested the division remains. Conversely, a defeat would drop Houston’s odds to 30%, emphasizing the stakes of the matchup. The Texans need Stroud to outperform Colts quarterback Daniel Jones to tilt the division race in their favor. The team’s offense, which has been inconsistent this season, requires a strong performance from its leader to complement a defense that has kept them competitive. Down the stretch, every possession matters. Houston’s ability to execute efficiently, protect the quarterback, and capitalize on opportunities will determine whether they remain legitimate contenders or fall behind in the AFC South.

3. Team Strengths and Outlook

The Texans boast an elite defensive line, capable of pressuring the quarterback and controlling the trenches. Cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. is performing at a high level, adding a shutdown presence in the secondary that can tilt close games. Offensively, Stroud’s return could reinvigorate Houston’s passing attack. While he has struggled to match his rookie season numbers, improved protection from the offensive line provides a pathway for him to stay upright and make plays downfield. The combination of a strong defense, returning quarterback, and disciplined offensive unit positions the Texans to make a late-season push. If the team hits its stride, the AFC South race could remain open through the final weeks. However, a loss to the Colts would likely cement Indianapolis’ advantage in the division. Houston will need precision, focus, and execution from all phases of the team to keep their playoff hopes alive.