After a dominant win against the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon praised quarterback C.J. Stroud, comparing his leadership and potential to former teammate Joe Burrow.
The Houston Texans, once a struggling franchise, have undergone a remarkable transformation. The arrival of C.J. Stroud, coupled with the leadership of first-year head coach DeMeco Ryans, propelled the team to a playoff berth and a 10-7 record last season. This year, with the additions of Joe Mixon and Stefon Diggs, the Texans aimed to elevate their offense further. Despite a season-ending injury to Diggs, the team sits at a promising 7-4 after a convincing victory over the Dallas Cowboys.
Mixon’s High Praise for Stroud’s Leadership
Following the Cowboys game, Mixon lauded Stroud’s dedication and preparation. He highlighted Stroud’s proactive approach, sharing clips and insights with teammates to ensure everyone is detail-oriented. “He sends us clips, he sends us all the little things that we need to do…to be on top of the detail,” Mixon explained.
Joe Mixon #28 of the Houston Texans runs with the ball to score a touchdown during an NFL Football game against the Los Angeles Chargers at AT&…Alt: Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon scores a touchdown against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Drawing Comparisons to Joe Burrow
Mixon, who played alongside Burrow during the Bengals’ Super Bowl run, sees striking similarities between the two quarterbacks. He emphasized Stroud’s ability to learn from the game and apply it effectively, much like Burrow. Mixon even recalled a crucial play where Stroud used his legs, showcasing a versatility reminiscent of the Bengals’ star quarterback. “I just try to do…what [Joe Burrow] did in Cincinnati, and just letting him know, like, ‘Bro, you have that same ability,’” Mixon stated.
The Importance of the Texans’ Running Game
While Stroud’s development is crucial, the Texans’ success hinges on a strong running game. Head Coach DeMeco Ryans stressed the importance of the offensive line’s performance against the Cowboys. He praised their aggressiveness and speed, which allowed Mixon to rush for over 100 yards and three touchdowns.
Joe Mixon #28 of the Houston Texans celebrates a touchdown scored by Derek Barnett #95 after recovering a fumble against the Dallas Cowboys during …Alt: Joe Mixon celebrates a Houston Texans touchdown after a fumble recovery against the Dallas Cowboys.
A Strong Foundation for Future Success
The Texans’ potent rushing attack sets the stage for Stroud to utilize his talented receivers, creating a balanced and dynamic offense. With a 7-4 record, the team is well-positioned for a playoff run. The combination of Stroud’s burgeoning talent and a strong running game provides a solid foundation for the Texans’ continued success. The team’s ability to maintain momentum and stay healthy will be key in determining their ultimate playoff fate. Can Stroud, with Mixon by his side, replicate Burrow’s success and lead the Texans to a Super Bowl appearance? Only time will tell.
