After the Texans’ 0-3 start, I wrote that they needed to do a better job of helping C.J. Stroud feel more secure in the pocket. The effects of pressure can compound for any quarterback, meaning he isn’t only impacted on plays where there actually is pressure. He’s also effected when there’s a clean pocket because he starts to anticipate pressure.
That was the way that Stroud had been playing from last year through the first 3 games of this season.
But over their last 4 games, the Texans appear to have turned a corner. During that stretch, they’ve gone 3-1, and Stroud’s production has taken off:
Notice the difference in his first 3 games vs. his last 4 in terms of play-action %, sack %, and pressure %. Offensive Coordinator Nick Caley has found a way to keep Stroud comfortable by mitigating the pressure opposing pass rushes have been able to get.
Play-action is one way he’s been able to do this, but in general, mixing in play-action with moving pockets and quick throws has helped Stroud settle into games.
In the Texans’ Week 8 win over the 49ers, Stroud looked a lot like the rookie version of himself that had everyone expecting him to immediately jump into the top-5 conversation. One reason for this was that Caley used play-action or a moving pocket on Stroud’s first 4 dropbacks and 7 of his first 10 to help ease him in.
Stroud responded by completing 30 of 39 passes for 318 yards and 2 touchdowns.