Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) attempts a pass as Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Roy Lopez (98) applies defensive pressure during the first quarter at NRG Stadium. Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Texans QB C.J. Stroud throws 40-yard TD to WR Tank Dell

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 11/19/23

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud and fellow rookie Tank Dell are becoming an electric passing tandem.

Against the Arizona Cardinals, Stroud threw a 40-yard TD to the wide receiver, giving the Texans a 21-10 lead with 26 seconds remaining in the second quarter.

WHAT A THROW WHAT A CATCH!!!! pic.twitter.com/kypBLtytSx
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) November 19, 2023

After the Texans drafted Stroud, he asked the team to select the former Houston Cougars WR. Clearly, the organization made the right decision. Entering Week 11, the 69th overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft had logged 34 receptions for 510 yards and five TDs.

Stroud has shined, too. The second overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft had completed 61.6 percent of his passes for 2,626 yards, 15 TDs, two interceptions and a 63.2 QBR, 10th in the NFL, heading into the game.

The duo is helping Houston (5-4) rebuild after three straight losing seasons and could lead the franchise to its first playoff appearance since 2019. The New York Times Simulator notes the Texans have a 52 percent chance of making the postseason.

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