C.J. Stroud Blasts Texans for 'Lollygagging' After 14-9 Loss to Rams
Quarterback calls out team’s preparation and execution following a second-half collapse at SoFi Stadium
C.J. Stroud publicly criticized the Houston Texans' effort after the team's 14-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, saying the squad "didn't deserve to win" and accusing teammates of "lollygagging" during the game.
The game, played Sept. 7 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., saw Houston build a 9-7 halftime lead on three Ka'imi Fairbairn field goals before being shut out in the second half. The Texans finished with 265 yards of total offense, committed two turnovers and punted on several possessions as the Rams pulled away to secure the victory.
Stroud, in his third NFL season, completed 19 of 27 passes for 188 yards and an interception. It was the second straight game without a touchdown pass for Stroud, the first time in his career he has gone back-to-back without one. He acknowledged his own responsibility, saying he must prepare better and hold teammates accountable.
"We didn't deserve to win that game because we didn't do the right things," Stroud said, according to CBS Sports. "When you come out in the NFL lollygagging, going through the motions, that kind of happens. I think we'll be all right, but I think it's a good wake-up call for us."
Stroud underlined a desire to push teammates and himself after a game that contrasted with Houston's offensive expectations following last season. "There's a type of mindset of, 'Did I do enough?' I think it's healthy, because you'll probably do more," he said. "For me, preparing, I've got to do a better job, and I've also got to hold all of my guys accountable."
The Texans entered the 2025 season coming off an AFC South title and a Wild Card Round win in the 2024 postseason. Stroud rose quickly as a franchise cornerstone after being selected second overall in the 2023 NFL Draft and earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors that season with 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns and five interceptions in 15 games. His numbers dipped in 2024, when he threw for 3,727 yards with 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
Stroud noted the opponents presented "a lot of exotic looks" and that excuses would not be productive. He stressed the long season ahead and a competitive approach: "Are you going to lay down, or are you going to go play? For me, I just try to go and compete as best I can and show those guys I don't care who's in there. I trust in you. I try to play as hard as I can to show them I'm there for them."
The Texans return to Houston for their home opener next week, when they will host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday Night Football. Coaches and players will have a short window to address the offensive lapses and turnovers highlighted by Sunday's defeat as they prepare for the next game.