by: Alex Byington 2 hours ago _AlexByington
Houston quarterback C.J. Stroud threw four interceptions in the first half and the fifth-seeded Texans never recovered as the No. 2-seeded New England Patriots advanced to next week’s AFC Championship game vs. the Denver Broncos with a 28-16 win Sunday afternoon in snowy Foxboro. Stroud, a third-year pro from Ohio State , became the first NFL player with five or more interceptions and five or more fumbles in a single postseason, according to the Associated Press.
Following the disappointing loss, Stroud appeared unconsolable as he left the field. But that didn’t stop third-year Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans from expressing his support for his starting quarterback.
“Keep your head up, I love you,” Ryans reportedly told Stroud postgame, according to The Athletic ‘s Mike Jones. “I have your back, this whole team has your back.”
Stroud finished the game 20-of-47 passing for 212 yards and one touchdown to four interceptions, while also adding two carries for 11 yards on the ground despite three sacks.
