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Does Houston beat New York on TNF?

Vaseline November 1, 2024

The Houston Texans hit the road in a short week to take on the New York Jets in primetime on Thursday Night Football. One team is slipping after a last-second touchdown loss to a struggling AFC East opponent. The other returned to his winning ways, but will leave two key elements behind on the attacking staff.

The Texans need to prove they can win at less than 100% on offense. Nico Collins remains on injured reserve with a hamstring injury. Meanwhile, Stefon Diggs’ tenure at NRG Drive could be over after the four-time Pro Bowler suffered a season-ending torn ACL in the Week 8 win against the Colts.

“He’s been such an important part of our team and everything he brought, not only on the field but off the field,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said. “The energy, the leader, the way he worked every day,” Ryans said. “I have to pick up the slack. A lot of guys have to step up and pick up the slack. I’m definitely praying for him.”

Can Houston survive a close battle against an AFC East opponent headed for multiple offensive stars?

Here are the predictions from the Texans Wire staff for Thursday’s showdown between two vastly different AFC “contenders” to close out the month of October.

Cole Thompson – Editor-in-Chief

October 27, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud (7) celebrates wide receiver Tank Dell’s (3) touchdown against the Indianapolis Colts in the second quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn images

Yes, the Texans have lost two of their vital weapons in the passing game, but this is a make-or-break moment for the AFC South favorite. The defense is good enough to lead Houston to a title. Can the offense keep pace?

With the Jets allowing over 125 rushing yards per game, Joe Mixon should have a field day in space. Expect CJ Stroud to finally get John Metchie III involved in the passing game, especially when he lines up. It’s hard to trust anything surrounding the Jets these days. Even when you’re beaten and bruised, it’s easier to trust Houston’s front seven.

Texans 21, Jets 14

John Crumpler – Staff Writer

October 27, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans safety Jalen Pitre (5) celebrates his interception with teammates against the Indianapolis Colts in the second quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn images

The 6-2 Texans travel to play the 2-6 New York Jets and are a shocking underdog after losing Stefon Diggs. This will require the best play from CJ Stroud and Joe Mixon this season, but it’s hard to imagine a red-hot Houston defense suddenly allowing a broken Jets offense to find their feet.

Aaron Rodgers, Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall and the Jets’ talented offense will see some action, but ultimately DeMeco Ryans’ defense carries the team to victory once again.

Texans 20, Jets 17

Logan Farlow – Staff Writer

October 27, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud (7) and wide receiver Tank Dell (3) react after a play during the fourth quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at NRG Stadium. Mandatory credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn images

It makes me think about the fact that New York is favored in this game and they have a defense that can frustrate the Texans offense. However, Joe Mixon could be in for another big day and Houston’s defensive line could wreak havoc against fairly cash-strapped Aaron Rodgers.

Texans 20, Jets 10

State of seasonal forecast staff

October 27, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston running back Dare Ogunbowale (33) celebrates running back Joe Mixon (28) during his rushing touchdown against the Indianapolis Colts in the second quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn images

Cole Thompson (5-3)
John Crumpler (5-3)
Logan Farlow (6-2)