Houston Texans vs. Green Bay Packers Preview

Matchup Overview

The upcoming game features the Houston Texans (5-1) taking on the Green Bay Packers (4-2) this Sunday at 1 p.m. EDT, aired on CBS. The odds favor the Packers by 2.5 points. The Texans have an against-the-spread record of 2-3-1, while the Packers stand at 4-2. Historical data shows that the Packers lead the series 4-1, with their last encounter resulting in a 25-20 victory for Green Bay in Houston on October 25, 2020.

Recent Performance

Both teams come off impressive wins last week—Houston routed New England 41-21, while Green Bay secured a solid 34-13 home victory against the Arizona Cardinals. Analyzing both teams’ offensive capabilities, the Texans rank sixth overall, 14th in rushing, and fifth in passing with a scoring rank of 14th. On the other hand, the Packers sit fourth overall, second in rushing, and tenth in passing, scoring jointly the eighth most in the league.

Defensive Stats

Defensively, the Texans are ranked third overall, 13th against the run, and fourth against the pass, tied for 15th in scoring defense. The Packers, however, are placed at 18th overall, with stronger ranking at eighth against the run but a weaker 25th against the pass, tied for ninth in scoring defense.

Key Player Insights

For the Texans, defensive end Will Anderson Jr. is a standout, coming off a stellar performance against the Patriots where he recorded eight tackles, three sacks, and four tackles for losses, earning him the AFC Defensive Player of the Week title. He now holds 12.5 sacks through his first 21 games, ranking second in franchise history behind J.J. Watt.

On the Packers’ side, quarterback Jordan Love has showcased promising skills in his four starts this season, amassing 12 touchdown passes, with four touchdowns in both of his last two home games. Despite six interceptions this season, he limited errors against the Cardinals, noting just one interception related to a receiver slip.

Significant Matchups

A critical aspect of this game will be the Texans’ passing game versus the Packers’ secondary. C.J. Stroud has diversified his targets successfully, connecting for touchdowns with three players last week. Adding Stefon Diggs to the mix expands Houston’s offensive threats, aligning them against a Green Bay secondary that has excelled in forcing turnovers, with nine interceptions this season.

Injury Reports

In terms of injuries, Houston’s linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair is anticipated to miss the game due to a knee issue. Left tackle Laremy Tunsil aggravated an ankle injury but is expected to play, and linebacker Henry To’oTo’o is in concussion protocol. Cornerback Kamari Lassiter may also miss his second consecutive game.

Green Bay’s defensive lineman Devonte Wyatt has been sidelined for two games and did not practice recently. Additionally, the Packers will monitor the status of left guard Elgton Jenkins and defensive lineman Colby Wooden who also missed practice. Receiver Dontayvion Wicks, who left the Cardinals game due to a shoulder issue, was limited in practice.

Historical Context

Historically, the Packers have dominated recent encounters, winning their last three games against the Texans and averaging an impressive 32.7 points per game during this stretch. Houston’s only win against the Packers occurred at Lambeau Field in 2008, a narrow 24-21 victory.

Notable Statistics

The Texans are aiming to extend their winning streak to four games, which would mark their first such streak since a nine-game run in 2018. Running back Joe Mixon enjoyed a strong return against New England and will be a player to watch. Additionally, Dameon Pierce and Stefon Diggs are both performing well, boosting the Texans’ offensive dynamic.

On the Packers’ end, they boast 1,003 rushing yards this season—their best start since 1963. They are currently second in the league with 55 explosive plays, while also leading the league in takeaways with 17. Quarterback Love’s performance, tied for second in touchdown passes, cemented his role as a key player for Green Bay.

Fantasy Insights

Lastly, with the recent change to veteran kicker Brandon McManus replacing rookie Brayden Narveson, fantasy players may want to snag McManus off the waiver wire. With Narveson struggling in field-goal percentage, McManus could deliver better results in the upcoming games.