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CJ Stroud, Nico Collins deliver deep-bomb TD on first play for Houston Texans

Paul Harvey

By Paul Harvey

Published:

CJ Stroud and Nico Collins opened up the crucial Week 18 game for the Houston Texans with a bang!

Facing the Indianapolis Colts, the Texans dialed up a home run shot on their first offensive snap. The play-action pass worked perfectly with Houston’s protection holding up and Collins beating his man in a one-on-one situation.

The throw by Stroud was also electric with the rookie quarterback stepping into a throw deep down the middle of the field. It was on the money with Collins never breaking stride as he reeled in the catch and cruised to a 75-yard touchdown.

What a way to start the game:

The two former B1G stars and rivals in The Game have combined in a big way this season. Stroud is in line as the likely leader for Offensive Rookie of the Year, and Collins has compiled a breakout third season in the NFL. Collins has more than doubled his previous high for receiving yards and entered Saturday’s game with 71 catches for 1,102 yards and 7 touchdowns this season.

The two young stars have also presided over a swift turnaround for the franchise. After a 3-13-1 record last season, Stroud can lead Houston to a 10-7 record with a win Saturday night. A win would also put the Texans in the NFL Playoffs.

Paul Harvey

Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.