Why is Texans QB C.J. Stroud stuck in a second-year slump?

"It's no secret I haven't been playing well for my standard," Stroud said in a postgame news conference. "Everybody has to look in the mirror and try to get things fixed. So that's gotta be the plan for this week. Practicing. Getting better. Personally, I got to get better. As a team, we have to get better." 

Last season, Stroud only tossed five picks in 15 starts. That figure has increased to nine through 12 starts this season. 

His issues likely tie to one of the worst O-lines in the NFL. According to Pro Football Reference, Houston has allowed the league's most pressures (131) and the third-most sacks (41).  

"[The Texans] can't run-block, so Stroud is forced into a lot of third-and-longs, but they also can't pass-block," wrote The Athletic's Ted Nguyen Sunday. "Early in the season, Stroud was able to play hero ball, but that was unsustainable." 

Unless the Texans fix their porous O-line quickly, expect them to get bounced early in the playoffs. As of Monday, ESPN's Football Power Index gives them an 18.6% chance to make the AFC title game. 

Stroud, 23, still deserves criticism for underperforming, but his drop-off should teach the Texans a lesson. Relying on him to be spectacular every week isn't a recipe for success, especially when they can't keep him upright.