The Houston Texans made a surprising decision in Week 15 to start veteran quarterback Case Keenum over C.J. Stroud’s original backup, Davis Mills.
The move worked well, as Keenum completed 63.9 percent of his passes for 229 yards, one interception and the game-tying touchdown pass in the waning minutes of regulation against the Tennessee Titans. He also led the Texans down the field in overtime to get in position for the game-winning field goal.
Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik explained the rationale Thursday as to why the team felt Keenum would provide a better path to victory than Mills despite Keenum’s limited recent reps.
“We felt like the best way to win that game was with Case Keenum,” Slowik said.
#Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik on decision to go with Case Keenum as the starter 'We felt like the best way to win that game was with Case Keenum' @KPRC2 pic.twitter.com/3AJl5oumID
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) December 21, 2023
Reading between the lines – Keenum’s 78 games of experience lended him to play more efficient and mistake-free football. It would also be easier to retool a game plan around a veteran than Mills, who is only in his third season but has still seen lots of game action.
Keenum also played a more experienced defense in the Titans in Week 15 and will see one of the best defenses this season in Week 16 in the Cleveland Browns with C.J. Stroud likely out again. The Browns allow the fewest yards and the 12th-fewest points this season. They’re led by Defensive Player of the Year candidate Myles Garrett and the best secondary in the NFL in yards allowed.
Without Tank Dell and possibly Nico Collins at wideout, the Texans need someone who isn’t afraid to check the ball down and play it safely. Veterans Noah Brown and Robert Woods would start at wide receiver with Dalton Schultz once again starting at tight end.