C.J. Stroud spoke with the media this week about preparing to face Detroit’s defense and improving his team’s ability to finish games strongly.
On Detroit’s Defense
C.J.: They’ve got two really dynamic players, [Lions S] B[rian] Branch, who I played against in high school and the All-American Bowl. I’ve seen him make plays, and he’s always been a great playmaker, someone with a knack for finding the ball. The same goes for [Lions S] [Brandon] Joseph, so we have to be on top of our game.
On Finishing Stronger in Games
C.J.: One thing I’ve learned is that the other team is going to make plays, too. We have to not only respond but hold our ground. Especially at away games, I feel like we lack energy in the second half without our home crowd. I think we need to keep the swagger and energy up.
On the sideline, we need to be more hyped, cheering each other on, celebrating together. You see other teams doing this; like when [Jets WR] Garrett [Wilson] scored, their sideline was alive.
When the defense makes a big stop, we should make it feel like everyone is balling out. It has to go both ways, and I believe this can bring more energy and excitement.
