Houston quarterback C.J. Stroud threw a career-high four interceptions in a 28-16 playoff loss to the New England Patriots. His 28.0 passer rating was the lowest of his career, and one pick-six marked the first such touchdown allowed by Stroud. The defeat ended the Texans' season in the divisional round for the third straight year.

Stroud accepted full blame, calling it one of his worst career outings. His -15.9% completion percentage over expected was the worst among any starting QB in the divisional round over the past decade. While the defense also struggled, allowing three touchdowns, Stroud's turnovers proved decisive, with historical data showing teams are 3-35 in playoff games when a quarterback throws four interceptions.

Despite the meltdown, coach DeMeco Ryans never considered benching his quarterback, reaffirming his support post-game. Teammates like Will Anderson Jr. also backed Stroud, calling him the league's best. Stroud now faces an offseason focused on correcting his ball security, a glaring issue for a player who won Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023 but has seen his production dip since.