The Houston Texans secured a 22-17 victory over the Denver Broncos in their Week 13 showdown. Jimmie Ward, back after missing three games, with the help of the Texan’s resilient defense sealed the deal for their team, joining rookie CJ Stroud in the spotlight.
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It was the Houston safety’s interception that sealed the win against the Broncos with nine seconds remaining on the clock. Ward was quick to deflect praise after the game, attributing the success to the entire defense. He also acknowledged the strategic play and effective pressure that forced Russell Wilson into a crucial mistake.
Moreover, Jimmie Ward criticized the NFL’s perceived softness in decision-making as he reflected on the personal foul penalty he received. The safety defended his hit on Russell Wilson as he felt it was a ‘great hit’ and ‘fair’ in terms of the shoulder impact. He further warned that if the league authorities maintain such a soft stance, the NFL could risk transforming into Flag Football saying, “Sooner or later the NFL is going to turn into flag football.”
“Sooner or later the NFL is going to turn into flag football,” said Texans safety Jimmie Ward. He was flagged for a personal foul penalty after hitting Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson on Sunday. #Texans #Sarge @TheTexansWire pic.twitter.com/oUIFuuEA1i
— #SARGE (@BigSargeSportz) December 4, 2023
However, the foul call had no impact on Russell Wilson’s quest for victory. It was indeed a challenging outing for the QB. He ended up with a total of 186 passing yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions. His performance even tied for the second-most interceptions in his impressive 12-season career.
Russell Wilson Faces Heat as Rookie CJ Stroud Shines
CJ Stroud had an amazing outing where he led his team to a clear victory. He threw for 274 yards and a touchdown on 16 of 27 passes bringing up his total passing yards this season to 3,540. Stroud also became the first rookie since 1950 to lead the NFL in passing yards at any week’s end.
Cant wait to hear the excuses for Russell Wilson when he had 3 ints and lost the Broncos the game , cant blame the defense today. I wonder who Bronco fans will try and scapegoat and not just blame the QB making 250 million dollars
— Yo (@NflandNbafan2) December 3, 2023
I’m not gonna say anything crazy like “I want to duct tape Russell Wilson to a wall and then burn the house down” but I will say that I’m unhappy with his performance today.
— EricRileyMarshall (@XxCMOxX69) December 3, 2023
Omg…no. Russell Wilson 2nd INT. Sutton was WIDE OPEN
— Ryan Edwards (@redwardsradio) December 3, 2023
Fans heavily criticized Russell Wilson for being outplayed by rookie CJ Stroud. One fan questioned Wilson’s performance, highlighting the three interceptions that cost the Broncos the game.
Russell Wilson throws his second interception of the game. His second one to Derek Stingley Jr.
Rough game for Russ.
— Cody Roark (@CodyRoarkNFL) December 3, 2023
Texans-Broncos about to enter the fourth quarter, and Russell Wilson has yet to throw for 100 yards
— Matt Verderame (@MattVerderame) December 3, 2023
It’s shocking that a rookie like CJ Stroud can be better in the clutch than a 12 year veteran who’s been to multiple pro bowls and won a SB
— Charlie W☄️ (@kingofdubs) December 3, 2023
The criticism extended to Wilson’s hefty salary, wondering who Broncos fans would blame. Another fan remarked that Derek Stingley’s play essentially retired Wilson’s fake revival. Shockingly, fans believe a rookie like CJ Stroud proved better in the clutch than the seasoned veteran with multiple pro bowls and a Super Bowl win.
