Texans Top 49ers 26–15 Behind Stroud’s Strong Showing, Four Fairbairn Field Goals

C.J. Stroud threw for 318 yards and two touchdowns as the Houston Texans defeated the San Francisco 49ers 26–15 on Sunday at NRG Stadium, snapping a two-game skid and earning their most complete win of the season.

Houston built a 16–0 halftime lead behind a balanced attack that saw nine different players catch passes. Rookie running back Woody Marks added 62 rushing yards, and kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn converted four field goals to keep the Texans comfortably ahead. Cornerback Kamari Lassiter sealed the victory with a late interception in the end zone.

After the game, Stroud reflected on faith and perseverance following the team’s recent struggles.

“First I just want to give all praise to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” Stroud told NFL on FOX. “Without Him I’m nothing. I’m a broken, wretched, sinful man. He’s saved me time and time again. Whenever I lack self-confidence, I have God confidence. It’s easy to have faith when it’s easy, but when it’s hard and it gets tested, you get punched in the mouth — what are you gonna do? We had hard conversations, coaches were hard on us, we were hard on the coaches, we got things fixed and just gotta keep things rolling.”

Head coach DeMeco Ryans praised Stroud’s poise, calling it “one of his best games… ever,” and emphasizing the quarterback’s command under pressure.

“Smart, disciplined decisions — check-downs, quick hots, stepping up in the pocket, and running when needed,” Ryans said. “We have to continue to stay with this every week. The standard has been set.”(via Texans postgame press conference)

The Texans (3–4) limited the 49ers (5–3) to just 25 rushing yards from Christian McCaffrey, while backup quarterback Mac Jones threw for 193 yards with two touchdowns and one interception in his first start for San Francisco.

Houston hosts Denver next Sunday, while San Francisco travels east to face the New York Giants.