After a humbling defeat, the Buffalo Bills are eager to get back in the win column when they visit the Houston Texans this Sunday. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best NFL odds from the top sportsbooks.
NFL Pick: Over 46.5 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Bills vs. Texans
Sunday, October 05, 2024 – 01:00 PM ET at NRG Stadium
Bills Seek Redemption After Harsh Reality Check
The Buffalo Bills aren’t in full panic mode yet, but last week’s dismantling by the Baltimore Ravens was a serious wake-up call. In a primetime showdown against a potential playoff rival, Buffalo didn’t just lose—they were outplayed in every phase, falling 35-10 in a game that exposed critical flaws.
This was the first blemish on the Bills’ record this season and a stark reminder that there’s still a gap between them and the league’s elite. Whether Baltimore is simply a superior team or Buffalo fell flat, the end result is the same: the Ravens made more plays, dictated the pace, and left the Bills looking outmatched.
With two more road games on the immediate horizon, the pressure is mounting for Buffalo to regain its footing. Their next challenge against Houston looms large, especially after the weaknesses revealed last Sunday.
Buffalo’s defense, once regarded as a top-tier unit, was exposed by the Ravens. A combination of injuries and lack of depth was evident as Baltimore moved the ball at will, and the once-formidable front seven struggled to generate pressure or contain the run. On offense, the struggles were even more pronounced. Josh Allen, who had shredded Jacksonville’s defense just a week prior, looked lost and repeatedly forced the ball into tight windows.
Allen was sacked three times for a loss of 27 yards and ended with only 180 passing yards and 21 rushing yards. Although he avoided throwing an interception for the fourth straight week, it was by a matter of inches, as Baltimore defenders dropped two would-be picks. A critical fumble on a botched trick play in the third quarter killed any hope of a comeback.
If Buffalo wants to bounce back, they’ll need to shore up their protection and get back to the aggressive style that saw them average over 30 points in the first three games.
Texans Fight Through Growing Pains
Meanwhile, the Houston Texans snatched victory from the jaws of defeat against the Jacksonville Jaguars, thanks to the poised performance of second-year quarterback C.J. Stroud. Stroud threw for 345 yards and two touchdowns, including a clutch one-yard pass to Dare Ogunbowale with 18 seconds left to cap off a 24-20 comeback win.
The Texans’ win was anything but smooth. They committed 12 penalties, bringing their total to 35 over the last three games—a concerning trend that highlights their struggles with discipline. But Stroud’s strong connection with Nico Collins, who reeled in 12 receptions for 151 yards and a touchdown, helped Houston overcome their miscues and march down the field for a game-winning 69-yard drive.
However, the Texans can’t afford to rely on last-minute heroics every week. If they want to compete at a higher level, they need to clean up the penalties and tighten up their defensive schemes. Houston’s secondary allowed Jacksonville to move the ball easily, a worrying sign as they prepare to face a talented Bills offense.
NFL Pick
Buffalo’s defense, which struggled to contain Baltimore’s balanced attack, now faces a surging Texans offense led by a confident Stroud. The Bills’ secondary will need to step up, as Stroud has shown the ability to carve up weak spots and rack up yards in chunks.
On the flip side, Houston’s defense remains vulnerable, especially against a dynamic quarterback like Allen. The Texans’ front seven has been inconsistent, and their undisciplined play could be exploited by a Bills team eager to make a statement.
If the Bills’ offensive line can hold up and give Allen time to operate, they should find opportunities to capitalize on Houston’s defensive lapses. However, if Buffalo’s defense can’t plug the holes exposed by Baltimore, Stroud could be in for another big day.
Both teams have shown they can put points on the board, and their recent defensive performances suggest this game could turn into a back-and-forth affair. With two high-powered offenses facing defenses that have struggled, expect a high-scoring game where big plays and turnovers will likely decide the outcome.
If Buffalo can fix its issues in pass protection and limit penalties, they have the edge. But if Houston’s offensive rhythm continues and the Bills’ defense can’t adjust, this could turn into a thrilling shootout in Texas.
NFL Pick: Over 46.5 (-110) at Bet365
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