Houston, TX - The upcoming game against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday may see the Houston Texans facing a significant challenge as rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud has been ruled doubtful. Stroud suffered a concussion during last week's game against the New York Jets, and although he is reportedly feeling better, he remains in the concussion protocol and has not practiced with the team this week.

Texans coach DeMeco Ryans provided an update on Stroud's status, stating that though there has been some improvement, the rookie signal-caller is still in the protocol. This means that backup quarterback Davis Mills is expected to start in place of Stroud for the first time this season. Mills, who has accumulated 5,802 passing yards with 33 touchdowns and 25 interceptions over his first two seasons in Houston, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity.

"With time come reps and experience. I think just the amount of opportunity I've had and the experience I've been able to build over these past couple of years has made me a better player," Mills said during Thursday's press conference. "I'm looking forward to it."

The Texans offense will receive a boost with the return of tight end Dalton Schultz, who missed the past two games with a hamstring injury. Schultz, who ranks third on the team in receiving yards with 455, is expected to play against the Titans. However, the team's leading receiver, Nico Collins, is listed as questionable due to a calf injury. Collins has not practiced all week, leaving his availability uncertain for Sunday's game.

Stroud's potential absence could have an impact on his chances of achieving a record-breaking season. Currently, he ranks second in the NFL in passing yards with 3,631, only 743 yards away from tying the rookie passing yards record set by former Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck. If Stroud returns in Week 16, he will need to average 248 yards per game over the next three games to surpass Luck's record.

Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik acknowledged the need for adjustments in the game plan with Mills as the quarterback, highlighting Stroud's exceptional throwing abilities. Slowik expressed confidence in Mills' ability to adapt, citing his familiarity with the offensive system and his success in executing different play styles.

The injury to Stroud comes at a critical juncture for the Texans, who currently trail the Jacksonville Jaguars (8-5) in the AFC South and are tied with five other teams at 7-6 for the No. 6 spot in the conference. With only three wild-card spots up for grabs, the Texans have a 45% chance, according to ESPN's Football Power Index, of making the playoffs as they enter Week 14.