H OUSTON -- According to C.J. Stroud, he's one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL when he's dealing. And against the San Francisco 49ers, Stroud delivered what coach DeMeco Ryans called one of Stroud's "best games ever" in the Houston Texans ' 26-15 win Sunday.

C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans are on the right side of a critical update before facing the Denver Broncos.

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, right, runs with the ball as San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Mykel Williams defends during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025, in Houston. Credit: AP/Eric Christian Smith

Instead of having to settle for another field goal, C.J, Stroud and Xavier Hutchinson hooked up to put the 49ers in a deeper hole.

C.J. Stroud delivered in a big way for the Houston Texans against the San Francisco 49ers and spoke candidly afterward.

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) is congratulated by teammates Aireontae Ersery (79) and Tytus Howard (71) after throwing a touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025, in Houston. Credit: AP/Eric Christian Smith

“Played amazing, man,” said wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson, who caught five passes for 69 yards and one touchdown on a well-timed, 30-yard pass in the third quarter that boosted the Texans’ lead to 23-7. “That’s what 7 is like. You can say whatever you want about C.J., but when you need him the most, man, he’s gonna show up.

NFL Week 9 odds, picks, predictions, TV channel, streaming information for the Sunday football game between the Denver Broncos and Houston Texans.

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud tiptoes up the sideline on a 13-yard scramble against the San Francisco 49ers.