Texans fans had different expectations for the first half and the game as a whole. C.J. Stroud's performance was deemed unfavorable compared to his season.
C.J. Stroud's performance against New England becomes a social media meme.
CJ Stroud after his rookie season pic.twitter.com/U6zhglZoFe
— Hater Report (@HaterReport_) January 18, 2026
CJ STROUD DROPS BACK TO PASS pic.twitter.com/lhcD7OdmJ8
— Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) January 18, 2026
CJ Stroud today pic.twitter.com/2Xrz0Xzhy7
— PlayoffClark (@clarkisking1) January 18, 2026
CJ Stroud is the most effective QB for the Pats since Tom Brady 😭 pic.twitter.com/K99gCAVF94
— Polymarket Sports (@PolymarketSport) January 18, 2026
The Patriots' defensive unit intercepted C.J. Stroud four times in the first half, including a pick-six by cornerback Marcus Jones that changed the course of the momentum and helped them build a 21-10 halftime lead. The win puts the Patriots on to face the top-seeded Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High in the AFC Championship Game next weekend. The Texans have still never advanced past the divisional round, so this year’s run matches but does not surpass the franchise's deepest playoff run.
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