Clemson Football: Deshaun Watson earns first NFL start on birthday
Former Clemson football quarterback Deshaun Watson has officially been named the starter for the Texans in their game against the Bengals on Thursday.
Former Clemson football quarterback Deshaun Watson has officially been named the starter for the Houston Texans.
Watson will start his first game on Thursday, when the Texans take on the Cincinnati Bengals.
What makes it that much sweeter?
Thursday will be Watson’s 22nd birthday.
That’s right, Clemson football fans.
Deshaun Watson will be celebrating his 22nd birthday with his first career NFL start on Thursday. Not a bad way to spend the day.
#Texans coach Bill O'Brien didn't announce his starting QB, but there is decision. Rookie Deshaun Watson will start, per @JamesPalmerTV & me
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 12, 2017
All of this came about after starting QB Tom Savage was unable to lead the Texans to one score in the first half against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Saturday.
Savage was not elusive enough to escape the pressure and, due to the Texans’ weak offensive line, Bill O’Brien elected to go with the more versatile quarterback.
Watson led the Texans on a touchdown drive in the second half, but still has a long way to go. He finished the contest 12-of-23 for 102 yards, a touchdown, and an interception in the loss.
This is the chance Watson has been looking forward to.
Cincinnati’s defense is not strongest out there and I believe this is the best week for him to start to get his footing underneath him.
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Watson had a minor ankle injury that made many doubt whether he would be available on Thursday, but he went through the practices this week and seems ready to go.
Clemson football, make sure you tune into the NFL Network on Thursday at 7:25 p.m. to watch Watson take on the Bengals.