Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud is trying to absolutely get away of his funk in time for the playoffs, however it is going to be more durable to take action with out one in all his most skilled offensive linemen on the sector. Proper guard Shaq Mason, who missed the final two common season video games with a knee harm, is unavailable for Saturday’s AFC Wild Card recreation versus the Los Angeles Chargers, per Professional Soccer Speak’s Charean Williams.
Contemplating the Texans are mainly limping into the playoffs, the two-time Tremendous Bowl champion’s inactive designation is tough information. Mason’s manufacturing in the course of the 2024-25 marketing campaign left loads to be desired, as his 62.3 Professional Soccer Focus grade illustrates, however he might a minimum of supply a veteran presence within the trenches. Though O-Line uncertainty is at all times distressing, this can be very unsettling in the course of the postseason.
Texans are simply trying to outlast the Chargers
Stroud and a much-diminished offense should determine the best way to face up to the hard-hitting Chargers this weekend. The house crowd will present some help, however good quaint execution is required to prevail in opposition to a savvy head coach like Jim Harbaugh. Houston has the good thing about utilizing final yr’s optimistic playoff journey as a body of reference. Conversely, LA’s final postseason reminiscence is downright bleak, courtesy of a historic collapse in opposition to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
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Finally, although, the previous mustn’t decide the end result of this must-win battle. Stroud has to do away with the soccer rapidly and discover a option to keep on his toes. Excluding a truncated outing in final Sunday’s win over the Tennessee Titans, the 2023 Professional Bowler has been sacked a complete of 11 instances in his final three full video games. If he can barely enhance on that tempo, it might make a noticeable distinction within the Texans’ offensive output.
The onus isn’t all on Stroud, nevertheless. Operating again Joe Mixon should make the most of a not too long ago thinner workload (14 carries mixed in final two weeks) and discover new life in NRG Stadium. Head coach DeMeco Ryans additionally must have his protection able to go versus Justin Herbert and firm. This opening playoff matchup won’t be the prettiest, however that might work in Houston’s favor.
In a season slowed down by accidents and regression, an unsightly win will suffice. Count on Shaq Mason to lend his knowledge from the sidelines when mandatory.