HOUSTON – In a nail-biting finish, C.J. Stroud showcased his rising star potential by throwing for an impressive 345 yards and two touchdowns, guiding the Houston Texans to a 24-20 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, September 29, 2024. Stroud’s heroics were capped off with a critical 1-yard touchdown pass to Dare Ogunbowale with just 18 seconds remaining, sealing the Texans' win.

The Texans, now with a 3-1 record, demonstrated resilience after a humbling 34-7 loss against the Minnesota Vikings last week. This victory was critical as they faced a winless Jaguars team that struggled to find their footing this season, now sitting at 0-4.

The game turned in the Texans’ favor in the final minutes when they forced Jacksonville into a three-and-out, regaining possession with under three minutes left in the game. Stroud's nine-play, 69-yard drive was instrumental in clinching the victory and representing the Texans' first score of the second half.

Nico Collins emerged as a standout performer for Houston, shining with 12 receptions for 151 yards and adding a touchdown to his season tally. This marked his third 100-yard game this season, further establishing him as a key player for the Texans' offense.

On the other hand, Trevor Lawrence struggled despite a valiant effort, throwing for 169 yards and two touchdowns. The Jaguars, however, saw their losing streak extend to nine games as they failed to capitalize on critical opportunities throughout the match.

Jacksonville had initially found some momentum in the second half after a touchdown from Christian Kirk, taking a 20-17 lead in the third quarter. However, they missed a golden opportunity to extend their lead following a stunning 58-yard run from Tank Bigsby that brought them to the Texans’ 4-yard line. After failing to score on two subsequent rush attempts and a critical fourth-down stop, Jacksonville could not recover.

In a series of ups and downs, the game featured several pivotal moments, including a fumble by Texans special teams player Steven Sims that was recovered by the Jaguars, setting up an early score for Jacksonville. Houston responded with agile play, including Stefon Diggs scoring his first career rushing touchdown, tying the game early on.

As the match progressed, the tension grew, epitomized by the Jaguars' pressure to maintain their lead against a determined Texans squad. The game appeared to turn into a battle of attrition as it progressed, with the Texans committing a whopping 12 penalties, contributing to their struggle to secure a consistent offensive flow.

In terms of injuries, the Jaguars faced a potential setback with defensive end Josh Hines-Allen leaving the game in the fourth quarter for a concussion evaluation. Meanwhile, the Texans were without key running backs Joe Mixon and Dameon Pierce as well as wide receiver Tank Dell, all sidelined by injuries.

Looking ahead, the Jaguars will host the Indianapolis Colts next Sunday, hoping to finally break their losing streak, while the Texans will take on the formidable Buffalo Bills in Houston.

Stay tuned for more thrilling match-ups and updates as the NFL season continues!