Texans Secure Playoff Spot with Thrilling 20-16 Win Over Chargers

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Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud made a statement with two long touchdown passes, securing a crucial 20-16 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers on Saturday. The win marked the Texans' eighth consecutive win, cementing their spot in the playoffs. Stroud's 75-yard pass to Jayden Higgins and 43-yard pass to Jaylin Noel in the first six minutes of the game set the tone for Houston's dominating performance. The Texans' defense also played a crucial role, with Derek Barnett notching two of the team's five sacks. Stroud completed 16 of 28 passes for 244 yards, but also threw two interceptions. Justin Herbert led the Chargers with 21 of 32 completions for 236 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, but it was not enough to overcome the Texans' early lead. The Chargers' comeback attempt was thwarted when they failed to convert an extra point after Omarion Hampton's 5-yard touchdown run with 3:37 remaining. The Texans then ran out the clock, securing their playoff berth. The win also allowed the Denver Broncos to clinch the AFC West division title, as the Chargers were eliminated from the division race. Stroud's early touchdown passes caught the Los Angeles defense off guard, with Higgins hauling in the 75-yard pass on the game's third play. Stroud struck again on Houston's next possession, connecting with Noel for a 43-yard play. The highly-accurate Cameron Dicker missed a 32-yard field goal attempt with 10 seconds remaining in the half, marking the first time he missed from under 40 yards in his four NFL seasons.