Davis Mills replaced Stroud in the loss to Denver and started Week 10, completing 27 of 45 passes for 292 yards, two touchdowns, one interception and one key touchdown while leading a wild fourth-quarter comeback effort to beat the Jaguars and improve Houston’s record to 4-5. Kicker Matthew Wright replaced Fairbairn in the contest and converted a 23-yard field goal and his only extra point attempt.
While there are no guarantees in the NFL, Sunday’s date with the 1-8 Titans offers the Texans the best remaining opportunity to give several injured players another week of rest.
Mills will resume his role as the interim starter in Nashville on Sunday, while Wright is expected to continue to fill in for Fairbairn.