C.J. Stroud Throws Three Touchdowns as Houston Escapes With Dramatic 34-31 Win
The Houston Texans delivered one of their most exciting performances of the season Sunday, defeating the Jacksonville Jaguars 34-31 at Wembley Stadium in London. Ka’imi Fairbairn drilled a 49-yard field goal as time expired, capping a wild finish and giving Houston its second consecutive victory.
The win improves the Texans to 2-4, while Jacksonville falls to 4-2 after seeing its three-game winning streak come to an end.
Stroud Leads Houston’s Offensive Attack
Quarterback C.J. Stroud was outstanding for most of the afternoon, completing 24 of 34 passes for 312 yards and three touchdowns. Although a late interception nearly cost Houston the game, Stroud responded by leading the Texans into field goal range on the final possession.
Tight end Foster Moreau caught two touchdown passes from Stroud, including a one-yard score with eight seconds remaining in the first half that gave Houston a 17-14 lead.
Wide receiver Jaylin Noel also played a major role, recording a career-high 107 receiving yards and a touchdown. His 50-yard reception late in the first half helped Houston regain momentum before halftime.
The Texans extended their advantage to 24-14 early in the third quarter when Noel caught a 13-yard touchdown pass. Running back Jawhar Jordan later added a 25 yard touchdown run, giving Houston a 31-21 lead.
Jaguars Fight Back Behind Trevor Lawrence
Jacksonville refused to go away. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence threw for 306 yards and four touchdowns, keeping the Jaguars within striking distance throughout the game.
Running back Bhayshul Tuten caught two touchdown passes from Lawrence, while rookie tight end Nate Boerkircher recorded his first career touchdown reception.
Travis Hunter Jr. delivered one of the game’s most memorable performances. Hunter caught a touchdown pass before intercepting Stroud late in the fourth quarter, helping Jacksonville erase Houston’s advantage.
After Hunter’s interception, kicker Cam Little connected on a 60-yard field goal with 1:55 remaining to tie the game at 31-31.
Fairbairn Delivers the Winning Kick
Houston had one final opportunity, and Stroud made sure the Texans took advantage. He connected with Woody Marks for a crucial 19 yard gain before the offense moved into scoring range.
Fairbairn then stepped up and drilled the 49-yard field goal as time expired, securing the dramatic victory.
The win gives Houston valuable momentum after a difficult start to the season. The Texans will look to build on their back to back victories, while Jacksonville must regroup after letting a late lead slip away in London.
