Bills vs Texans TNF: Keys to the Game

Thursday Night Football Showdown: Bills vs Texans

The NFL's Week 12 spotlight shines on Thursday Night Football as the Buffalo Bills (7-3) travel to NRG Stadium to face the Houston Texans (5-5). Kickoff is set for 8:15 PM ET on Prime Video, with Buffalo favored by 4.5 points. This crucial AFC clash features two teams trending in opposite directions despite identical 3-1 records over their last four games.

Josh Allen vs. the Texans' Top-Ranked Defense

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen is coming off a historic performance against the Buccaneers, throwing for three touchdowns and rushing for three more in a 44-32 victory. Allen brings an 8-0 perfect record on Thursday Night Football into this matchup, averaging 2.9 passing touchdowns per TNF start. The Texans' defense, ranked first in the NFL allowing just 163 points, presents his sternest test yet. Their defensive front will look to pressure Allen and neutralize his dual-threat capabilities.

Texans Offense Without C.J. Stroud

With quarterback C.J. Stroud (concussion) sidelined, Davis Mills will start for Houston. Mills has a 0-2 record in previous starts this season, but he's shown chemistry with star receiver Nico Collins, who has 228 yards over the past two weeks. The Texans' ground game, led by running back Dameon Pierce, will be pivotal against a Bills defense that's struggled to contain opposing rushers.

Historic Stakes in Houston

The Bills haven't won in Houston since November 19, 2006, dropping five consecutive games there including last season's 23-20 loss where Allen completed just 30% of his passes. Conversely, the Texans have dominated at home against Buffalo, going 3-0 since 2018. This history adds an extra layer to an already intriguing matchup.

Betting Preview and Promotions

Oddsmakers favor Buffalo by 4.5 points with an over/under of 43.5 points. For those interested in wagering, bet365 is offering new users $150 in bonus bets with the code CBSBET365 after placing a $5+ wager. The Bills have covered the spread in two of their last four road games, while Houston is 2-2 against the spread at home this season.

Expert Predictions

"The Texans defense will make Allen work, but his playmaking ability in prime time gives Buffalo the edge" - Pete Prisco (CBS Sports)

"Short week, tough road trip - this feels like a classic trap game for Buffalo" - Vic Tafur (The Athletic)

Why This Game Matters

For Buffalo, a win keeps them within striking distance of AFC East leader New England. Houston needs to maintain its hold on the final AFC wild-card spot, sitting just 1.5 games behind Jacksonville. The winner gains significant momentum heading into the final month of the season.

Can Allen continue his TNF dominance? Will the Texans' defense finally solve the Bills' offense? All answers will be revealed on Thursday Night Football.