The Texans head to Kansas City to take on the Chiefs in what promises to be a battle of strengths, even if Patrick Mahomes is out. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best NFL odds from the top sportsbooks.
NFL Pick: Chiefs +2.5 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Texans vs. Chiefs
Saturday, December 21, 2024 – 01:00 PM ET at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium
Houston Dominates Miami
Nico Collins delivered a standout performance with two touchdown receptions, and the Texans’ defense stepped up with four forced turnovers, including two fourth-quarter interceptions by Derek Stingley, to earn a 20-12 win over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.
Collins’ first six-yard touchdown came in the second quarter, while his second, also from six yards out, extended Houston’s lead to 20-6 in the third. Dare Ogunbowale’s 35-yard run on a fake punt set up the latter score, adding a spark to Houston’s special teams play.
C.J. Stroud orchestrated the offense with precision, completing 18 of 26 passes for 131 yards and two touchdowns. Despite struggling on the ground with just 23 yards on 12 carries, Joe Mixon contributed as a receiver, hauling in five passes for 33 yards.
Kansas City Handles Cleveland
Mahomes threw two touchdown passes before leaving the game in the fourth quarter because of a right ankle injury, while Xavier Worthy chipped in with a rushing touchdown as the Chiefs cruised to a 21-7 win over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday.
Mahomes connected with Juju Smith-Schuster and Noah Gray in the first half, helping Kansas City build a commanding 21-0 lead. Although the Chiefs struggled offensively in the second half, their defense held firm to secure the win.
Mahomes completed 19 of 38 passes for 159 yards before exiting after an ankle injury. Carson Wentz closed out the game under center for the Chiefs, while Kareem Hunt and Isiah Pacheco combined for 77 rushing yards on 26 carries. After the game, Mahomes confirmed X-rays were negative and expressed confidence in his availability for critical moments.
Keys to the Game
Stroud’s efficiency in Houston’s passing attack will be critical against a Chiefs defense known for generating pressure. Completing 69% of his passes against Miami, Stroud demonstrated his ability to manage the game effectively. However, Kansas City’s defensive front thrives on creating chaos, and Stroud’s ability to stay composed under duress will be a defining factor.
Houston’s defense has a knack for forcing turnovers, as seen with Stingley’s two clutch interceptions against Miami. Mahomes, who completed less than 50% of his passes last week, must avoid giving Houston’s secondary opportunities to swing momentum. If Mahomes isn’t fully recovered from his ankle injury, the Texans’ defense could take advantage with aggressive blitzes and tight coverage schemes.
Hunt and Pacheco have provided steady but unspectacular production, and their combined 77 rushing yards against Cleveland highlighted a need for balance in the Chiefs’ offense. Houston’s front seven will aim to contain the ground attack, forcing Kansas City to rely on Mahomes. If the Texans can limit early rushing success, they’ll increase the likelihood of creating key turnovers.
The Texans’ creativity on special teams, highlighted by Ogunbowale’s 35-yard fake punt run, could play a pivotal role in keeping the Chiefs off balance. Meanwhile, Kansas City’s ability to capitalize on turnovers and short fields remains one of their most dangerous traits. The battle for field position and timely execution on special teams will loom large in this matchup.
NFL Pick
This game promises to be a battle of Houston’s defensive prowess and Kansas City’s offensive resilience. While Stroud has shown the ability to keep Houston competitive, Mahomes’ leadership and the Chiefs’ experience in high-pressure situations give Kansas City the edge, and I still like their chances if Mahomes misses the game.
NFL Pick: Chiefs +2.5 (-110) at Bet365
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