The Houston Texans had a strong start against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 17. C.J. Stroud connected with his receivers on two deep passes in the first quarter, quickly building a 14-0 road lead in a crucial game for both teams.
The Texans came out firing on all cylinders, and their explosiveness impressed fans who had been calling for Nick Caley’s firing due to the unit’s inconsistency. Although both teams will be in the playoffs, there were mismatches all over the field.
Mina Kimes Points Out Mismatch for Texans’ Offense Against Chargers’ Defense
Both teams have strong defenses and capable quarterbacks, while offensive line play has been a concern. According to ESPN’s Mina Kimes, the Texans’ offense has excelled with intermediate and deep in‑breakers since their bye week. She noted that while the Chargers’ defense is strong outside the numbers, it remains vulnerable over the middle of the field, creating a “mismatch.”
“Texans offense has been killing teams with intermediate and deep in-breakers since the bye. Chargers D is great outside the numbers — but MOF is a weakness. Mismatch,” she posted on X.
Texans offense has been killing teams with intermediate and deep in-breakers since the bye. Chargers D is great outside the numbers—but MOF is a weakness. Mismatch.
— Mina Kimes (@minakimes) December 27, 2025
On the first touchdown, Stroud threw a bomb to Jayden Higgins after he broke free on a vertical route over the middle. He later connected with Jaylin Noel on a deep crosser that resulted in a 43-yard score. The Chargers’ defense settled in after the second touchdown, not allowing another point until the end of the half.
C.J. Stroud has long been effective at throwing the deep ball. One of the Texans’ biggest issues has been their inability to protect the quarterback, as they have one of the league’s weakest offensive lines. Nevertheless, Stroud continues to find his rhythm and remains one of the league’s better passers when healthy.
Herbert and Stroud are both ranked as above-average quarterbacks in the PFSN QB Impact metric. The Chargers’ quarterback is rated higher, checking in at No. 9 with an 80.6 score. The Texans’ passer is not far behind at No. 14 with a 77.1 Impact Score.
The Texans should also feel fortunate that Stroud is playing at such a high level this season. Their running game ranks among the worst in the league, averaging just 3.9 yards per carry, the fourth-lowest mark in the NFL. When the run game falters, Houston has at least been able to rely on its passing attack.
Herbert also delivered a highlight of his own during the game, connecting with Oronde Gadsden on a beautiful touchdown that helped pull the Chargers back into contention.
