NFL playoffs: CJ Stroud throws four interceptions as New England Patriots beat Houston Texans to reach AFC Championship Game | NFL News

Kayshon Boutte scored a spectacular one-handed touchdown in the fourth quarter as the New England Patriots finally broke the Houston Texans’ resistance to reach the NFL’s final four with a 28-16 victory on Sunday. 

Quarterback CJ Stroud threw four interceptions in a mistake-riddle game that saw the Texans stay alive thanks to their No 1-ranked defense, which limited New England to just seven points from their five total turnovers.

The Patriots will now face the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship Game, where Sean Payton’s side will be led by Jarrett Stidham at quarterback after Bo Nix broke his ankle during Saturday’s victory over the Buffalo Bills.

Patriots second-year quarterback and MVP contender Drake Maye finished 16 of 27 for 179 yards, three touchdowns, an interception and four fumbles as he was harassed all night by Houston’s pass rush. Will Anderson starred with three sacks, two tackles for loss and a quarterback hit.

Stats leaders:

Texans

• Passing: CJ Stroud, 20/47, 212 yards, 1 TD, 4 INTs
• Rushing: Woody Marks, 14 carries, 17 yards
• Receiving: Jayden Higgins, 6 catches, 59 yards

Patriots

• Passing: Drake Maye, 16/27, 179 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT
• Rushing: Rhamondre Stevenson, 16 carries, 70 yards
• Receiving: Kayshon Boutte, 3 catches, 75 yards, 1 TD

More to follow…

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