QUARTERBACK CJ STROUD
CJ, it seemed like you all enjoyed this win. You know, celebrating pretty often. How was that and why do you feel like the energy was so high for you guys today?
We enjoy being around one another, you know. So just the opportunity to be around one another is definitely amazing because this year has been a lot of ups and downs, but we've always stuck together. Every obstacle we face we always meshed well more. We just come together in those moments. Kind of just showed it right there in that game, seeing some of the younger guys play or some of the guys being able to get opps. Also, DB (Derek Barnett) getting that touchdown, just those moments are fun.
Given those ups and downs that you mentioned, C.J., do you think that really equips you guys, your second year of going into the playoffs again, just knowing how this year went, do you think that has maybe fortified you guys for this upcoming run?
Yeah, sure. Those adversities and those hard times definitely build those callouses. We played really well against some of the best teams in the league, we just haven't finished the right way. I think we give ourselves our best opp (opportunity) by just playing Texan brand football. Those trials and tribulations definitely are going to help in my opinion.
What, in particular, do you feel like you all did learn from last year's loss to the Ravens that could help you all as you all enter the playoffs?
I mean, really just every play matters. It's really the same even during the regular season, it's more amped up, definitely, during the playoffs just because guys are playing harder, it's a lot on the line. The main thing is just every play going forward, not taking anything back. But even when things happen, just staying positive, that's something I learned.
I know you and Bryce [Young] are pretty tight. He just helped lead the Panthers to a win over Falcons and had like five touchdowns in the game so just what are your thoughts on that? Seeing your brother play very well and close out his season.
Yeah, he's been balling. I'm so happy for him. The guys around him are rallying around him. He's leading them and doing what he's got to do to make plays. And, I'm really just happy for him, you know? Very, very, very, very, very just - inspires me to keep going, you know? I'm always a big fan of his and I always will be. That's a brother of mine. It is good to hear that. I'm probably going to watch the highlights when I get on the bus. God bless y'all.
