How Texans OC Bobby Slowik Has Helped C.J. Stroud Excel As A Rookie

The Game-Winning Playcall

In the waning seconds against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 9, Houston Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik had a hunch. The Texans were on the Buccaneers’ 15-yard line trailing 37-33 with 10 seconds remaining. Based on his analytical data, Slowik knew Bucs coach Todd Bowles would be in Cover 4. Texans coach DeMeco Ryans, who’s also the defensive playcaller, runs a similar Cover 4-based defensive approach, so Slowik knew how to attack what he had seen countless times in practice. Slowik dialed up a double post concept with receivers Noah Brown and Tank Dell lined up close to each other. Brown’s objective was to occupy the safety and have Dell one-on-one with cornerback Carlton Davis III. When quarterback C.J. Stroud caught the snap, the defensive coverage unfolded precisely how Slowik anticipated, and Dell quickly got open for the winning touchdown. Stroud’s final throw capped a historic afternoon.

Slowik’s Experience With The 49ers

Slowik’s time with the San Francisco 49ers led him to Houston. The first-time playcaller joined the 49ers’ staff in a defensive quality control role in 2017 under coach Kyle Shanahan, as he knew Shanahan from their time with the Washington Commanders from 2010 to 2013. Eventually, Shanahan moved Slowik to offensive assistant in 2019. He was then elevated to pass game coordinator in 2022 after serving as an offensive passing game specialist in 2021. Slowik came over from the 49ers with Ryans, who was the defensive coordinator in San Francisco, when he took over as coach in Houston last offseason.

People Also Read:

Transforming The Texans Offense

Slowik and Stroud changed the dynamic of a Texans offense that struggled the past two seasons. The unit ranked last in points per game (15.8) and yards per game (280.8), along with having the second-worst QBR (34.3). With Stroud under center this season, the offense has averaged 22.4 points (tied for 13th) and 351 yards (10th). Before the concussion, Stroud came into Week 14 leading the NFL in passing yards as well. That’s the latest in a season that any rookie has entered a week leading the NFL in passing yards since the 1970 merger.

Building Around Stroud’s Strengths

Slowik began building the offense around Stroud after the Texans made him the No. 2 pick in April. The scheme is a version of Shanahan’s West Coast offense that heavily emphasizes timing, anticipation, ball placement and footwork. “Accuracy is definitely something you either have it or you don’t. And C.J. has it,” Ryans said in November. “We’re thankful that he has it. You can try to coach it as much as you want to, but it has to be that natural throwing ability.”

People Also Read:

Challenging Stroud Early On

Slowik began challenging Stroud, even when he wasn’t a Texan. They met during Stroud’s pre-draft visit, where Slowik coached him during the meeting and, at times, challenged him. They reviewed the film from Stroud at Ohio State and discussed the good, the bad and the ugly. Slowik wanted to see how Stroud reacted to honest feedback, and Slowik was pleased with how his quarterback of the future responded. Stroud’s competitive nature and ability to process and recall plays were impressive. His responses — verbally and physically — were equally good.

Leveraging Play Action With Stroud

Passing concepts for Stroud have been a staple for the Texans’ offense. Ryans makes suggestions with Slowik about the game plan, but he doesn’t get too involved. One concept that’s worked is play-action, as they’ve run it 154 times, 12th most, and Stroud has been lethal. He’s third in yards (1,166) and fourth in passer rating (112) when running play-action. The Texans’ longest offensive touchdown this season came off play-action versus the Buccaneers for 75 yards.

The Impact of Slowik and Stroud

As the Texans prepare for the last four quarters of the regular season, Ryans does not take Slowik for granted. The stakes in Week 18 are a testament to the work the trio of first-timers has put in to position a franchise that has won 11 games in the previous three seasons for a playoff push. “Bobby is just a guy who is very detail-oriented in everything that he does. … I’m happy to have Bobby onboard,” Ryans said. “He’s done a great job all year. We wouldn’t be here where we are standing today without Bobby and his entire staff.”

How Texans OC Bobby Slowik Helped CJ Stroud Excel as a Rookie

The Houston Texans have been making waves in the NFL with their impressive rookie quarterback, CJ Stroud. Much of Stroud’s success can be attributed to the guidance and coaching of Texans Offensive Coordinator, Bobby Slowik. Slowik’s expertise and innovative approach have played a crucial role in Stroud’s development and his ability to excel in his rookie season.

The Mentorship of Bobby Slowik

Bobby Slowik’s mentorship of CJ Stroud has been instrumental in the young quarterback’s growth. Slowik’s extensive experience as a coach and his deep understanding of the game have allowed him to provide valuable insights and guidance to Stroud. Slowik’s ability to identify Stroud’s strengths and weaknesses and tailor his coaching approach accordingly has been key in Stroud’s development.

People Also Read:

An Innovative Offensive Scheme

One of the main reasons behind CJ Stroud’s success as a rookie is the innovative offensive scheme implemented by Bobby Slowik. Slowik has designed an offense that maximizes Stroud’s strengths and allows him to showcase his skills on the field. The offensive scheme incorporates a mix of run-pass options, play-action passes, and designed quarterback runs, keeping the defense guessing and allowing Stroud to make quick decisions.

Building Trust and Confidence

Bobby Slowik has been instrumental in building trust and confidence in CJ Stroud. Slowik has created a supportive and nurturing environment where Stroud feels comfortable taking risks and making plays. Slowik’s ability to instill confidence in Stroud has allowed the young quarterback to make bold decisions on the field and trust his instincts.

Developing Football IQ

Under the guidance of Bobby Slowik, CJ Stroud has developed a deep understanding of the game. Slowik has worked closely with Stroud to improve his football IQ, teaching him how to read defenses, make pre-snap adjustments, and recognize patterns in the opposing team’s play. This enhanced football intelligence has contributed to Stroud’s ability to make quick decisions and exploit weaknesses in the defense.

Attention to Detail

Bobby Slowik’s meticulous attention to detail has had a significant impact on CJ Stroud’s performance. Slowik leaves no stone unturned when it comes to game planning and preparation. He meticulously studies film, analyzes opponents’ tendencies, and designs game plans that exploit their weaknesses. Slowik’s dedication to detail has rubbed off on Stroud, who has developed a similar work ethic and commitment to excellence.

Adapting to Stroud’s Strengths

One of Bobby Slowik’s greatest strengths as a coach is his ability to adapt his coaching style to fit the strengths of his players. Slowik recognized early on that Stroud possessed exceptional arm strength and accuracy, and he designed an offense that allowed Stroud to showcase these skills. Slowik’s willingness to adapt and tailor his coaching approach to suit Stroud’s strengths has been crucial in the young quarterback’s success.

People Also Read:

Conclusion

Bobby Slowik’s role as the Offensive Coordinator of the Houston Texans has been pivotal in CJ Stroud’s exceptional rookie season. Slowik’s mentorship, innovative offensive scheme, and attention to detail have all contributed to Stroud’s growth and success. Under Slowik’s guidance, Stroud has developed into a promising young quarterback, and the future looks bright for both Stroud and the Texans.