C.J. Stroud’s Touchdown Leads Texans to Preseason Victory Over Panthers

C.J. Stroud’s Touchdown Leads Texans to Preseason Victory Over Panthers

Saturday night’s preseason matchup saw the Houston Texans emerge with a 20-3 win over the Carolina Panthers, powered by an early touchdown connection from quarterback C.J. Stroud to wide receiver Nico Collins. The game highlighted Houston’s offensive potential while exposing some struggles for Carolina’s young lineup.

Stroud and Collins: A Connection with Promise

C.J. Stroud, back after sitting out last week’s game, made his preseason debut count despite early jitters. On his very first drive, he overthrew Collins on a deep ball and showed visible frustration, but he quickly redeemed himself. Stroud found Collins on a clutch 5-yard touchdown pass on fourth down, putting the Texans on the scoreboard and setting the tone.

“He’s one of a kind,” Stroud said admiringly of Collins. “Fast, strong, great route-running, and a quick release at the line — he has it all. It’s on me to hook him up, and I felt like I owed him after that early miss.”

Collins, who’s coming off back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons despite injuries, remains a vital weapon for Houston’s offense. Stroud’s efficient 6-for-8 passing for 44 yards across two drives showed early chemistry between the two.

New Faces and Fresh Energy in Houston’s Backfield and Sidelines

The Texans also showcased their new addition, running back Nick Chubb. Making his Houston debut after a distinguished seven-year tenure with Cleveland, Chubb ran five times for 25 yards. With Joe Mixon sidelined nursing a foot injury sustained in the offseason, Chubb’s presence is expected to add a powerful dimension to Houston’s ground game.

Houston also debuted their new offensive coordinator, Nick Caley, brought in after last season’s coaching changes. Stroud praised Caley’s first-time play-calling efforts, highlighting his enthusiasm and communicative style. “He loves to wire guys up and bring energy, which is exactly what the offense needs.”

Panthers’ Struggles and Injuries

The Carolina Panthers, struggling with an 0-2 preseason record, failed to generate much offense. Quarterback Bryce Young, the 2023 first overall draft pick, was unable to make a significant impact in just two drives, going 0-for-2 with a sack. Coach Dave Canales plans to rest starters for the remainder of the preseason, which means Young will have limited opportunities before the regular season.

Andy Dalton stepped in briefly but was sidelined with a right elbow sprain, adding more challenges for the Panthers as they prepare for the final preseason game at home against Pittsburgh.

Special Teams and Defensive Highlights

Special teams made an impact as Houston’s rookie kicker Ryan Fitzgerald impressed with a 52-yard field goal to cut the Panthers’ lead to 7-3 late in the first half. Ka’imi Fairbairn later extended Houston’s lead with two more field goals, pushing the score to 13-3.

On defense, the Texans made crucial plays by intercepting Carolina’s third-string QB Jack Plummer twice in the second half. Damon Arnette, returning after a long absence from the NFL, snagged one of those picks and set up British Brooks’ 1-yard touchdown run, sealing the Texans’ win.

Key Stats from the Game

Team	Pass Yards	Rush Yards	Total Yards	Final Score
Texans	157	109	266	20
Panthers	86	78	164	3

Houston Texans Offensive Highlights:

• C.J. Stroud: 6 completions on 8 attempts, 44 yards, 1 touchdown, 0 interceptions

• Nico Collins: 2 receptions, 13 yards, 1 touchdown

• Nick Chubb: 5 rushes, 25 yards

• Ka’imi Fairbairn: 3 field goals (41, 35, 0 yards)

  
  

Carolina Panthers Offensive Summary:

• Bryce Young: 0 completions on 2 attempts, 0 yards, sacked once

• Andy Dalton: 2 completions on 4 attempts, 22 yards (left game with elbow injury)

• Ryan Fitzgerald (kicker): 1 field goal, 52 yards

Looking Ahead

The Texans will close out their preseason Saturday against Detroit, aiming to build on the growing chemistry within their offense as the regular season approaches. Headlined by Stroud’s leadership and the addition of key players like Chubb, they look to continue their playoff momentum from the last two seasons.

Meanwhile, the Panthers seek answers and improvement, especially on offense, as they prepare to host Pittsburgh for their final preseason test Thursday night.