HOUSTON -- Trevor Lawrence showcased his skills as he threw for 364 yards and a touchdown to secure a close 24-21 victory for the Jacksonville Jaguars over the division rival Houston Texans on Sunday. The win allowed the Jaguars to maintain their top spot in the AFC South, creating a significant gap between them and their division rivals.

Both teams entered the game with a desire for redemption, as the Texans had previously defeated the Jaguars 37-17 in their Week 3 matchup. However, on this occasion, Lawrence and the Jaguars were determined to turn the tables and came out victorious.

Houston's rookie sensation, C.J. Stroud, put up a valiant effort, throwing for 306 yards and two touchdowns. His impressive performance added to his record-breaking rookie season, surpassing Justin Herbert's record for most passing yards in the first 11 games of a rookie's career.

The Texans led by a single point after a third-quarter touchdown run by Stroud. However, Lawrence quickly responded, connecting with Calvin Ridley for a 1-yard touchdown pass and a successful 2-point conversion to put the Jaguars ahead 21-14.

Jacksonville continued to maintain their lead when Brandon McManus added a crucial field goal early in the fourth quarter. The Jaguars' defense also played a vital role in their victory, stopping Houston on a decisive fourth down.

Despite McManus missing a field goal attempt from 55 yards with seven minutes left, Stroud rallied his team and orchestrated a 55-yard drive. The drive was capped off by a 17-yard touchdown reception by Nico Collins, narrowing the Jaguars' lead to 24-21 with just over five minutes remaining.

The Texans managed to halt the Jaguars' offense but were unable to make significant progress themselves. With time ticking away, their hope for a comeback dwindled. Instead of giving Stroud and the offense one more opportunity, the Texans opted for a long field goal attempt on fourth-and-12, a decision that ultimately sealed their fate.

The Jaguars' defense continued to shine throughout the game, with Derek Stingley Jr. intercepting Lawrence near midfield early in the second half. Stingley's interception marked his second consecutive game with a pick, showcasing the talent that made him the third overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.

In the first half, the Texans successfully capitalized on Stroud's touchdown run, taking the lead at 14-13. However, Jacksonville swiftly regained their advantage, aided by crucial pass-interference penalties against Houston's cornerback Tavierre Thomas.

McManus further extended the Jaguars' lead in the fourth quarter with a 53-yard field goal, giving them a 24-14 advantage. The Texans fought back, but their efforts fell short as Ammendola's 58-yard field goal attempt hit the crossbar with 34 seconds remaining, confirming the Jaguars' victory.

The game wasn't without its injuries, as both teams suffered losses. Jacksonville left tackle Cam Robinson left the field with a knee injury in the first quarter, while Houston's left guard Tytus Howard also injured his knee and did not return.

Looking ahead, the Jaguars will host the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday, December 4, while the Texans will face the Denver Broncos in their next home game.

In a hard-fought battle, Trevor Lawrence's exceptional performance propelled the Jaguars to a crucial victory, maintaining their stronghold on the AFC South and avenging their earlier loss to the Texans. With several weeks remaining in the NFL season, both teams will have an opportunity to bounce back and continue their pursuit of divisional success.