Texans Lead Bills 20-16 at Thursday Night Football Halftime
The Texans found themselves in a tight matchup against the Bills, leading 20-16 by halftime. The first quarter was a struggle for Houston’s quarterback, Davis Mills, who completed only one of eight passes for just 10 yards. By the end of the half, however, Mills improved significantly, finishing with 11 completions on 21 attempts for 122 yards and two touchdown passes.
First Half Highlights
The game began with the Bills leading 6-3. Bills quarterback Josh Allen faced early challenges, sustaining a hit from Texans linebacker Will Anderson Jr. late in the first quarter. Fortunately, Allen did not require medical assistance and returned to play after receiving an elbow wrap.
Key Moments
- In the second quarter, Allen attempted a pass to Elijah Moore, which was tipped by Azeez Al-Shaair and intercepted by Calen Bullock. Bullock advanced the interception 44 yards for a touchdown, but the score was nullified due to a blindside block penalty on Derek Barnett.
- The Texans capitalized on this opportunity, with a 43-yard field goal by Ka’imi Fairbairn, giving them a 13-9 advantage with just under two minutes remaining in the half.
- In response, Bills’ Ray Davis made a significant impact with a 97-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, marking the fourth kickoff return for a touchdown in the league this season.
- The Texans ended the half strong, executing a two-minute offense effectively. They drove 75 yards in just six plays, consuming 1:38 of the available time. Mills connected with Jayden Higgins for an 8-yard touchdown, adding to his earlier 2-yard pass to Christian Kirk.
Statistical Overview
As the first half concluded, several individual performances stood out:
- Davis Mills: 11 completions, 122 yards, 2 touchdowns
- Nico Collins: 3 receptions for 55 yards
- Christian Kirk: 4 receptions for 46 yards and 1 touchdown
- Woody Marks: 44 rushing yards on 8 carries
- Josh Allen: 11 completions on 15 attempts for 88 yards and 1 interception
- James Cook: 7 carries for 75 yards, including a 45-yard touchdown
The Texans outgained the Bills with a total of 201 yards compared to the Bills’ 155. The game’s shift in momentum showcased the Texans’ resilience and highlighted the intense nature of Thursday Night Football.
