Battle Red Blog
The Houston Texans hit the accelerator on their drive to make the playoffs when they host the 7-3 Buffalo Bills on Thursday Night Football. The Bills bounced back from their worst loss of the year against the 3-7 Miami Dolphins with a commanding win over the NFC South-leading Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bills hold the first AFC Wild Card spot, while the Texans are the first team out of the playoffs. This game has major playoff implications. For Houston, a win here keeps them in contention for a Wild Card spot and in line with the Chiefs and Ravens. For Buffalo, they are hunting the 9-2 New England Patriots for the AFC East divisional crown.
If that isn’t enough, Fanduel has several lines on the upcoming match that you can take action on before this Thursday’s contest.
Houston opens as heavy underdogs on a short week. Buffalo’s offense has proven to be one of the most formidable groups in the league. Lead by Josh Allen, the Bills
Houston did upset Buffalo last season in Houston, which elevated the Texans to 4-1 and helped them cruise into the playoffs. However, the energy around the Texans is starkly different. They are teetering on the edge of the playoffs with an extremely uphill battle ahead of them.
When Buffalo has won their games this season, they’ve been clearly out ahead of their opponents. Buffalo boasts a +63 point differential, and has secured several substantial victories.
Given the lack of clarity surrounding C.J. Stroud’s condition post-concussion, I would suggest taking the Bills -5.5.
If you think Houston will once again upset the Bills on TNF, doing this will net you a bigger payday. For instance, a $20 bet on Houston would win $43.
Josh Allen is just 1-3 all time against the Texans and that includes a Wild Card loss to the Texans in 2020. The key to the game is if Dion Dawkins and the Bills’ offensive line can stand up against Houston’s pass rush. The Bills are 11th in the league with only 20 sacks allowed in 2025. The other key to the game is if Houston can finally ignite their rushing attack against the Bills 31st ranked run defense.
I actually enjoy the Over on this one. Buffalo has scored 44, 13, 28, and 40 in their past four games. Their offense is efficient and highly effective, which could mean a high scoring game, with or without C.J. Stroud. Taking advantage of this total before Stroud clears concussion protocol would be savvy as it is most likely to increase with the news.
Houston has put up quiet but fairly consistent points lately. The offense has gained a second gear recently as Nico Collins finally found his way in the offense. Plus, rookies Jayden Higgins and Jaylen Noel are contributing more and more each week. They are fourth and fifth on the team in yards, while Higgins is...
