Houston Texans vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Preview: Can C.J. Stroud Rebound in Week 9?

The Houston Texans are in need of a bounce-back victory after a disappointing loss. What will the offense have to do to beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers?

In Week 9, the Houston Texans endured what will almost certainly be their worst loss of the season. Coming off the bye week against a winless Carolina Panthers team, Houston lost 15-13 to put a Texas-sized dent in its playoff chances.

Sometimes, teams end up on the wrong side of “any given Sunday.” It’s the mere reality of the sport.

However, Week 10 provides the Texans (3-4) with the opportunity to get back on track in front of the home fans against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-4).

Stroud attempts a pass against the Carolina Panthers.

Brad Mills/USA Today

Managing just two touchdowns against one of the league’s worst defenses isn’t going to cut it. Carolina was content to play two-high shells, preventing explosives and letting Houston run the ball, or at least attempt to. Through seven games, the Texans still have not been able to run the ball effectively.

Regardless, the explosives were not there on Sunday, and quarterback C.J. Stroud wasn’t as efficient as he’s been when the big-play threats were viable. Forced to play mistake-free football and endure long drives, the offense struggled to find a rhythm.

If it's any solace, Tampa Bay head coach Todd Bowles’ defense is unique, but not particularly imposing. On a per-dropback basis, the Buccaneers rank 20th in expected points added and 15th in success rate.

Bowles likes to be aggressive and send idiosyncratic pressures, but Carolina set out a pretty good blueprint. Finding ways to be consistent when the middle of the field is taken away and the deep shots aren’t available will be an important step in Stroud’s development.

Stroud’s -2.6 completion percentage over expected ranks 27th among starters and is revelatory of some of the struggles in the quick game. This issue has been (rightfully) overshadowed by otherwise strong performances amidst difficult circumstances, but he’ll need to earn the explosive plays by being better on the boring stuff.

Doing so on Sunday should give Houston a win in Week 9.

WHAT: Houston Texans (3-4) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-4)

WHERE: NRG Stadium, Houston, TX (72,220)

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, 12 p.m. (CDT)

TELEVISION: CBS

RADIO: SportsRadio 610 AM, 100.3 FM The Bull

ODDS: Texans -2.5 (-125), -150 Moneyline, Total: 39.5 (o -118/u -110)