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The Houston Texans look to rebound Monday night when they host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at NRG Stadium in Houston, TX. Kickoff is set for 8:15 PM ET.
Houston (0-1) dropped its opener 14-9 at the Rams, as quarterback C.J. Stroud was pressured on 41% of his dropbacks and sacked three times. Tampa Bay (1-0) edged Atlanta 23-20 behind a disruptive pass rush that pressured rookie Michael Penix Jr. on 43% of his dropbacks.
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Matchup Overview
- Venue: NRG Stadium, Houston, TX
- Date: Monday, Sept. 8, 2025 – 8:15 PM ET
- Betting Odds: Texans ML -125, Buccaneers ML +105, Spread HOU -1.5, O/U 42.5
The Texans Can Win If…
Houston finds stability up front. Stroud’s protection issues limited the passing attack in Week 1, with Nico Collins held to just three catches for 25 yards. If the Texans can execute better offensively, Collins has the talent to exploit Tampa’s secondary.
Coach DeMeco Ryans emphasized communication and execution against Todd Bowles’ exotic blitz packages. If the offensive line avoids negative plays and keeps Stroud upright, Houston’s offense should flow more efficiently.
Check today’s NFL Picks for expert breakdowns on Texans vs. Bucs.
The Buccaneers Can Win If…
Their pass rush continues to dictate. Bowles’ defense thrives on pressure from multiple spots, and if Tampa replicates its Week 1 success, Stroud could be in for another long night.
Injuries loom large: Tristan Wirfs (knee) returned to practice, while right tackle Luke Goedeke (foot) remains questionable. Chris Godwin Jr. (ankle) is also a game-time decision. If Wirfs plays, Tampa’s offensive line stabilizes, giving Baker Mayfield and Mike Evans more time to exploit mismatches.
Track line movement and injury updates live on the NFL Scores and Odds page.
Betting Outlook
The Texans opened as slight favorites at home (-1.5), but both offensive lines are in flux. My model projects a 20-17 Buccaneers upset, with Tampa’s defensive front creating just enough chaos to edge Houston.
At a total of 42.5, the lean is under. Both teams showed offensive limitations in Week 1, and with protection issues on both sides, points could be at a premium.
For strategies on primetime betting, head to the NFL Expert Betting Guide.
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Monday night action is where our NFL handicappers thrive. Check the leaderboard below to see who’s riding hot streaks and how they’re playing Texans vs. Buccaneers.
