Texans QB Stroud out with concussion; Mills to start against Jaguars in Week 10

C.J. Stroud’s concussion has placed the Texans’ playoff hopes in the hands of backup quarterback Davis Mills as they prepare to face the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Why it matters: Stroud's absence is pivotal for a team already struggling at 3-5, making this matchup crucial for their postseason aspirations.

• The Texans sit third in the AFC South and must contend with both the Colts and Jaguars, who currently lead the division.
• A win would not only bolster their confidence but also keep them within striking distance of the playoffs after losing to the Jaguars earlier this season.

What’s new: Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans confirmed that Davis Mills will step in as the starter due to Stroud's inability to clear concussion protocols.

• Mills brings experience, having started 26 games over the last two seasons, although his record stands at 5-19-1.
• He threw for 298 yards and three touchdowns in his last start against the Indianapolis Colts in January 2023.

Yes, but: While Mills has starting experience, his performance has been inconsistent throughout his career.

• In total, he has thrown for 5,802 yards, 33 touchdowns, and 25 interceptions, which reflects the challenges he has faced.
• The Texans rank 24th in scoring offense, averaging just 21 points per game, indicating that they have struggled to find rhythm on that side of the ball.

What to watch: The Texans offensive strategy may shift significantly with Mills under center, particularly in how they approach the passing game.

• Stroud had proven to be an efficient passer, posting a QBR of 64.8, the 12th best in the league, and had yet to throw an interception this season.
• Mills will need to effectively utilize the weapons around him, including standout receiver Nico Collins and tight end Dalton Schultz, to exploit the Jaguars’ defense.

The big picture: This situation underscores the fragility of a team's success when relying on the health of its starting quarterback.

• The Texans have invested in Mills, recently extending his contract through the 2026 season, signaling a belief in his potential despite previous struggles.
• As Mills prepares to lead the offense, the coaching staff will likely emphasize a balanced attack to alleviate pressure and avoid putting too much on his shoulders.

Between the lines: Mills expressed confidence in his abilities and readiness to step up, acknowledging the unfortunate circumstances surrounding Stroud's injury.

• “You could play at any given snap,” Mills stated, emphasizing the importance of being prepared in the NFL.
• With a full week of practice leading into the game against Jacksonville, Mills aims to take advantage of the opportunity to showcase his skills.

The bottom line: The Texans ability to compete in the AFC South hinges on Mills' performance against the Jaguars, making this a defining moment for both him and the team as they seek to revive their playoff hopes.