Late Touchdown by Stroud Secures Texans' Victory over Jaguars

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29/09/2024 21h13

**Stroud's Late Touchdown Propels Texans to Victory over Jaguars**

In a thrilling finish, C.J. Stroud's 1-yard touchdown pass to Dare Ogunbowale with just 18 seconds remaining secured a dramatic 24-20 victory for the Houston Texans against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday. Stroud amassed 345 passing yards and two touchdowns, rallying Houston to a comeback win after a challenging second half.

Trailing with less than three minutes left, the Texans forced the Jaguars into a three-and-out, setting the stage for Stroud's heroics. He orchestrated a nine-play, 69-yard drive that culminated in the game-winning touchdown, pushing the Texans' record to 3-1. This victory was a significant rebound for Houston following a heavy 34-7 defeat to Minnesota, despite the Texans committing 12 penalties and a costly punt return fumble.

Nico Collins was instrumental for the Texans, recording 12 catches for 151 yards and a touchdown, marking his third 100-yard game of the season. Meanwhile, Jacksonville's Trevor Lawrence threw for 169 yards and two touchdowns, extending his winless streak as a starter to nine games.

The Jaguars, now 0-4, showed early promise. Christian Kirk's touchdown reception with about six minutes left in the third quarter gave them a lead they held through most of the second half. However, a missed opportunity arose when a 58-yard run by Tank Bigsby brought the Jaguars to the Texans' 4-yard line. Unable to capitalize, Lawrence was stopped for no gain on fourth down at the start of the final quarter.

Houston's defense stepped up with Derek Stingley breaking up a pass to force a Jacksonville punt with roughly six minutes left. Despite numerous setbacks on the subsequent drive, including penalties and incomplete passes, the Texans persevered.

The game saw an early exchange of leads. Houston tied the game at 7 when Stefon Diggs scored his first career rushing touchdown following a Jaguars fumble. Jacksonville briefly led 10-7 with a field goal before Collins' 3-yard touchdown reception put Houston ahead 14-10. The Texans extended their halftime lead to 17-13 with a 30-yard field goal by Ka'imi Fairbairn just before the break.

Both teams faced injury challenges. For the Jaguars, DE Josh Hines-Allen left in the fourth quarter to be evaluated for a concussion. The Texans were without running backs Joe Mixon (ankle) and Dameon Pierce (hamstring), as well as wide receiver Tank Dell (hand and rib injuries).

Looking ahead, the Jaguars will host the Colts next Sunday, while the Texans prepare to face the Bills at home.

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