Was Stroud’s First Half Poor Enough to Justify a Quarterback Change?

January 19, 2026 - 21:15

In a recent game against the New England Patriots, the performance of rookie quarterback CJ Stroud has come under scrutiny. Stroud struggled significantly in the first half, raising questions about whether the coaching staff should have considered benching him in favor of Davis Mills. The Texans found themselves in a challenging position as Stroud's decision-making appeared compromised, resulting in missed opportunities and turnovers that could have shifted the momentum of the game.

Critics argue that a quarterback change could have provided a spark for the team, especially considering Mills' experience. However, supporters of Stroud contend that it is crucial for a young quarterback to endure these growing pains and learn from mistakes on the field. The decision to stick with Stroud may reflect a long-term strategy aimed at developing his skills and confidence, despite the immediate challenges he faced.

As the season progresses, the debate surrounding Stroud's performance and his role as the starting quarterback will likely continue, with fans and analysts eager to see how he responds in future games.