Patriots get four interceptions off C.J. Stroud, lead 21-10 at halftime

The New England Patriots secured a 21-10 lead at halftime against the Houston Texans in a divisional-round matchup, largely due to their defense intercepting Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud four times in the first half. Marcus Jones returned one interception for a 26-yard touchdown. Stroud finished the half 10-of-26 for 124 yards, one touchdown, and four interceptions, prompting speculation about a potential switch to quarterback Davis Mills for the second half.

Patriots' Carlton Davis intercepted two of Stroud's passes, while Craig Woodson accounted for the fourth interception. On the offensive side, Patriots quarterback Drake Maye experienced three fumbles, two of which were recovered by his team, but one fumble was returned by the Texans for a touchdown. Maye ended the half with 10 completions on 19 attempts for 117 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.

Overall, both teams struggled offensively, with Houston recording nine first downs and 132 total yards