The Houston Texans are set to host the Buffalo Bills on Sunday in a matchup fit for playoffs (specifically the AFC Champion game, according to defensive end Will Anderson Jr.). A prolific offense led by QB Josh Allen meets a stout defense led by Anderson Jr., and rather than a win or go home situation, each team is merely hoping to start the season on the right foot.
After a primetime thriller in 2025 (a 23-19 defensive masterpiece), it's going to be another nail biter this time around, right? As Lee Corso would say, not so fast, my friends.
Can the Texans shut down the Bills' new WR1 in D.J. Moore?
On Friday morning, ESPN released analysis for each game of the weekend, and it included bold predictions. Analytics writer Seth Walder forecasted the Bills to struggle getting the ball to their new weapon.
"Bold prediction: Bills WR DJ Moore will be held to two or fewer receptions. Perhaps Buffalo's newest playmaker will deliver at some point this season. But I don't think it will be against Derek Stingley Jr. or Kamari Lassiter."
As a member of the Chicago Bears in 2025, Moore was held to two or fewer catches in six games, so it's an attainable goal for the Texans' elite defensive backs. The aforementioned Stingley Jr. and Lassiter, as well as Houston's defensive swiss army knife in safety Jalen Pitre, intercepted four passes each last season.
Safety Calen Bullock tortured the Bills in their meeting last season, coming away with two interceptions and a forced fumble (including the game ending pick in the fourth quarter). Anderson Jr. also found success against Buffalo, as he dominated Allen like an apex predator would've dominated their prey during a hunt in the wild.
If Allen struggles to connect with his new No. 1 receiver, it could be a long day for the Bills. They just don't have anyone else to threaten the Texans outside of running back James Cook. Keon Coleman can't be relied on, and Khalil Shakir doesn't have much big play ability. Tight end Dalton Kincaid is slightly above average at best.
C.J. Stroud wasn't even under center when Houston beat the Bills last season, as Davis Mills took his place due to injury. A big game from Buffalo running back James Cook would change things, but the Texans should be able to get a win. If they neutralize the passing attack, and Moore in particular, it could be by a wide margin.
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