C.J. Stroud was lackluster in his preseason debut, but the Houston Texans still dominated the New England Patriots 20-9 Thursday night at Gillette Stadium.
The No. 2 overall pick played two series for Houston, completing 2-of-4 for 13 yards and an interception while taking a sack.
Spelling Stroud was third-year Davis Mills, who completed nine passes on 12 attempts for 99 yards and a touchdown. With 12 seconds remaining until halftime, Mills connected with rookie receiver Tank Dell to push Houston ahead 7-3.
Case Keenum took over for Mills with 11:58 to go in the third quarter. The 35-year-old went 9-14 for 79 yards and a touchdown.
Dell led all receivers with five catches for 65 yards and a touchdown. On his lone score, the third-round pick bobbled the initial contact with the ball while lying on his back in the front left corner of the end zone. Despite two Patriots in the area, Dell managed to catch the ball on the second attempt for his first preseason score.
Dameon Pierce did not play, which led Devin Singletary to take first-team reps at running back. The former Buffalo Bills starter carried five times for 14 yards. Mike Boone led the Texans with four carries for 25 yards.
Fifth-round linebacker Henry To’oTo’o collected five combined tackles to lead the team. Linebacker Denzel Perryman had four combined tackles and 1.0 sack. Defensive end Chase Winovich and defensive tackle Kurt Hinish also collected a sack apiece.
Houston limited the Patriots to 164 yards total offense while tallying 265. The Texans went 7-15 on third down while New England went 3-12. Texans coach DeMeco Ryans’ squad also won the penalty battle as they incurred three penalties for 30 yards compared to five for 41 for New England.
The Texans go home to host the Miami Dolphins Aug. 19 at NRG Stadium after a week of joint training camp practices.
The Patriots go on the road to take on the Green Bay Packers Aug. 19 at Lambeau Field.
