- CJ Stroud was 20/24 and had 264 yards for two TDs and 0 INTs on Saturday night
- He is now the clear favorite to win the NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Year award
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CJ Stroud and the Houston Texans are on their way to the playoffs — thanks in part to an insane 31-yard rush from the starting quarterback deep in the fourth quarter that sent them on their way to a victory over the Indianapolis Colts.
Stroud and star wide receiver Nico Collins worked together all night in the Texans' 23-19 victory in Indy, but there was a moment in the latter stages that summed up just how impressive the youngster was, and his Offensive Rookie of the Year credentials.
With the score tied 17-17, Houston back on their own 40-yard line, and on 2nd and 14, Stroud needed a moment of magic – and he did.
Spinning out of the pocket like a veteran, the 22-year-old is forced to retreat to the 30-yard line, and a split second before being sacked by two opponents, he throws a dart 31 yards to Collins, who dives to make a brilliant catch.
Earlier in the evening, Collins was also on the end of a 75-yard bomb from Stroud that put the Texans ahead 7-3, and the fourth-quarter throw set the team on the path to another touchdown – and eventual victory .
CJ Stroud produced another monster night to earn the Houston Texans a playoff spot
Stroud is now the clear favorite to win Offensive Rookie of the Year as the Texans reach the playoffs
Nico Collins dives to catch an incredible ball from Stroud deep in Indy's fourth quarter
The Colts lost at Lucas Oil Stadium, meaning their playoff hopes for another season are over
It was a win that ensured Stroud would be playing playoff football in his first season in the NFL, with the Colts now eliminated from contention.
The former Ohio State QB produced a magical night when he needed it most, going 20/24 and 264 yards for two touchdowns and no interceptions.
He had a passer rating of 134.1 that night and is now further up in the bookmakers' odds to win Offensive Rookie of the Year, with some moving as low as -3000.
LA Rams' Puka Nacua is the second favorite, while Anthony Richardson – the injured Colts QB – is the third favorite.
After being drafted second overall by the Texans last year, it was a remarkable season for Stroud as he thrust himself into the spotlight and proved he is one of the best young quarterbacks in pro football.