Game Details
•Matchup: Houston Texans (6-2) at New York Jets (2-6)
•Location: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
•Last Meeting: December 10, 2023 – Jets defeated Texans 30-6
•Kickoff: 8:15 PM ET, Thursday
Recent Form
The Texans enter this Week 9 matchup on a high note after a narrow 23-20 victory over the Colts, lifting them to a 6-2 record and second place in the AFC South. However, they face challenges without top receiver Stefon Diggs, who is out for the season with a torn ACL. Meanwhile, the Jets are looking to rebound after a tough 25-22 loss to the Patriots. They are currently 2-6, struggling to gain momentum in a competitive AFC East.
Team Breakdown
Houston Texans
Offense: The Texans rank 9th overall in offense, boasting a strong passing attack (8th) led by rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud. With Diggs and Nico Collins out, however, they’ll rely heavily on running back Joe Mixon, who has been electric since returning from injury. Mixon averages 100.6 rushing yards per game, third in the NFL, and has scored in three consecutive games. Houston’s offense may have to shift more toward the ground game as Stroud adjusts to a depleted receiving corps.
Defense: Houston’s defense is elite, ranking 2nd overall, excelling particularly against the pass (3rd) with a potent pass rush. Defensive ends Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter headline a formidable unit; Anderson’s 7.5 sacks and Hunter’s league-leading 51 quarterback pressures have contributed to Houston’s 27 total sacks, tied for third in the NFL. Their defensive front could prove problematic for a Jets offensive line that’s struggled with injuries and protection.
Player to Watch: RB Joe Mixon. With Diggs and Collins sidelined, Mixon’s performance will be crucial for Houston. He’s been a consistent offensive weapon, and his ability to break through the Jets’ stout run defense will be key to Houston’s game plan.
New York Jets
Offense: The Jets have had a lackluster season offensively, ranking 24th overall and particularly struggling in the run game (30th). Quarterback Aaron Rodgers will need more time in the pocket if New York hopes to exploit Houston’s secondary. However, injuries and inconsistency along the offensive line have hampered the Jets’ ability to protect Rodgers, which could lead to significant challenges against Houston’s pass rush.
Defense: The Jets’ defense has been strong, ranking 4th overall and 2nd against the pass. Edge rusher Haason Reddick, who recently ended his holdout, will be a focal point on Thursday. Although he played limited snaps in his debut last week, Reddick recorded two quarterback pressures and should see increased action this week. The Jets’ ability to generate pressure on Stroud, who has been sacked 22 times, will be critical in containing Houston’s offense.
Player to Watch: EDGE Haason Reddick. With his impact immediately felt last week, Reddick could play a significant role in disrupting Stroud’s timing. His snap count is expected to increase, and if he can complement an already strong Jets secondary, New York’s defense could hold Houston in check.
Key Matchup: Jets Offensive Line vs. Texans Pass Rush
New York’s offensive line has faced injuries and struggled with consistency, making their matchup against Houston’s pass rush one to watch. The Texans’ front, led by Anderson and Hunter, ranks third in the NFL with 27 sacks, and they’re especially dangerous on passing downs. If the Jets’ line fails to protect Rodgers, New York could face difficulty keeping up with Houston offensively.
Injury Report
•Texans: Out – WR Stefon Diggs (ACL), WR Nico Collins (hamstring), LB Azeez Al-Shaair (knee), S Jimmie Ward (groin), LG Jarrett Patterson (concussion), RB Dameon Pierce (groin).
•Jets: Out – LB C.J. Mosley (neck), RG Alijah Vera-Tucker (ankle), WR Allen Lazard (chest), DL Leki Fotu (knee), S Tony Adams (hamstring), S Ashtyn Davis (concussion), K Greg Zuerlein (IR).
Series Notes
The Jets have won the last two meetings against the Texans. In their last matchup, New York dominated 30-6, with Zach Wilson throwing two touchdowns as Stroud exited early with a concussion. The Jets have historically fared well in this series, winning five of the first six matchups.
Prediction
This Thursday night game could hinge on whether Houston’s offense can adjust to injuries in its receiving corps and whether New York can protect Rodgers from Houston’s relentless pass rush. With the Texans’ edge in both the run game and pass rush, they hold a slight advantage, though a strong Jets defensive showing could keep this one close.
