Can Texans’ Defense Halt Josh Allen and the Bills?
As Week 12 of the NFL season kicks off, the Houston Texans will host the Buffalo Bills on Thursday night. This matchup features quarterback Josh Allen, who is fresh off an impressive six-touchdown game. The Bills are currently in pursuit of the New England Patriots in the AFC East standings.
Texans Aim to Rebound Against Bills
The Texans enter this game with a 5-5 record, having just secured their second consecutive victory. However, they face a challenging schedule ahead, with upcoming road games against the Indianapolis Colts and Kansas City Chiefs. Last season, the Texans managed to defeat the Bills, but a different scenario unfolds this time as starting quarterback C.J. Stroud is sidelined due to concussion protocol. Davis Mills will be stepping in once again to lead the Texans offense.
Game Preview: Bills vs. Texans
The Bills are favored by 6 points in this clash, with significant implications for both teams. Josh Allen has a chance to set a new career rushing touchdown record for quarterbacks during this game.
Game Statistics and Predictions
- Game Date: November 20, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 8:15 PM ET
- Current Line: BUF -5.5
- Over/Under: 43.5
- Moneyline: BUF -240, HOU +200
According to ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI), the Bills are favored to win with a probability of 52.3%. Analysts point out that Buffalo’s run defense ranks poorly, sitting 26th in the NFL for defensive rush success rate. Conversely, the Texans’ rushing offense is in the bottom 10, making it challenging for them to exploit this weakness.
Offensive Challenges for the Texans
With Mills at quarterback, the Texans’ offense has struggled to gain momentum. They have recorded only one touchdown in their last seven first-half drives. Buffalo’s defensive strategy emphasizes coverage and pressure, making it difficult for Mills to sustain long drives. Experts forecast that Houston will need to capitalize on broken plays to score against the Bills. Still, without Stroud, achieving 20 points seems daunting.
Key Player Props and Betting Insights
- Davis Mills: Expected passing attempts set at UNDER 32.5
- Josh Allen: Projected passing yards at O/U 225.5 with touchdowns set at O/U 1.5
- Woody Marks: Anticipated rushing yards OVER 64.5, following increased touches in recent games
Betting trends indicate that the Texans are winless against the spread as underdogs this season and have struggled in games with less than six days of rest. The Bills, on the other hand, have faltered in their last three prime-time games, failing to cover the spread in crucial matchups.
This Thursday’s game poses a critical test for the Texans as they aim to halt the Bills and their high-powered offense, led by Josh Allen. The outcome could have lasting implications as the season progresses.
