Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud was ready to throw hands during Sunday’s NFL game against the Denver Broncos. The rookie signal-caller is about that action!
The heads-up sequence took place during the first half and ultimately led to a touchdown.
Houston had 4th-and-2 from inside the opposing 10-yard-line. Officials blew the play dead over a false start that would have moved it to 4th-and-7. However, linebacker Alex Singleton continued to rush into the backfield and delivered a shove well after the whistle.
C.J. Stroud completely baited him into the hit, which wasn’t violent but was very late. He stood on business!
The 22-year-old got up in Singleton’s face and gave him a piece of his mind. It was chippy!
As the two exchanged pleasantries, the nearest official ran in to throw a flag. Stroud continued to chip Singleton while walking away from the flames.
The Texans ultimately got a first down out of the exchange. They punched it in shortly thereafter.
Stroud has shown a lot of veteran traits throughout his first season in the NFL. His ability to bait Singleton into a penalty that directly resulted in the moving of the chains might be his most impressive move thus far.
There was no reason for the Broncos backer to engage with the quarterback. CJ Stroud got under his skin and tricked him into a reaction that directly benefited him and his team. Brilliant!