Texans vs. Raiders Preview: Houston’s Defense Meets NFL’s Coldest Offense
It’s not often you get a matchup this lopsided on paper. But when the 2-12 Las Vegas Raiders roll into Houston this Sunday, it’s not “strength vs. strength.” It’s more like a buzzsaw vs. a butter knife.
Let’s start with the Raiders. Offensively, it’s been a season to forget.
They’re dead last in total yards per game (244.1), passing yards per game (173.4), and rushing yards per game (70.8). And the scoreboard?
Even worse. Just 14.0 points per game.
That’s not just inefficient - it’s historically bad. For perspective, that’s fewer points per game than most teams average in a single half.
Meanwhile, over in Houston, Demeco Ryans has taken the Texans from afterthought to AFC contender. There’s legitimate buzz around this team - not just for a playoff run, but for something bigger.
And with rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud back in rhythm, the Texans are starting to look like the real deal.
The Numbers Don’t Lie: Texans’ Defense is Rolling
Houston’s defense has been a wrecking crew over the past five weeks:
- 15.6 points per game allowed
- 17 total sacks
- 8 takeaways
This unit is fast, physical, and disciplined. Defensive coordinator Matt Burke has them playing with an edge, and it shows.
They lead the NFL in total defense (269.2 yards allowed per game) and scoring defense (16.3 points allowed per game). That’s not just good - that’s championship-caliber.
And don’t expect Ryans to ease up. His team plays with the kind of urgency you want in December.
No one’s coasting. Not now.
Raiders Offense: Searching for a Pulse
Las Vegas is still trying to find any kind of rhythm on offense. Quarterback Geno Smith, in limited action last week, completed 13 of 21 passes for 116 yards and a touchdown.
That’s solid efficiency, but the production just isn’t there. Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty led the team with 42 scrimmage yards, and tight end Brock Bowers continues to be a bright spot with six catches and two touchdowns in his last three games.
But that’s about it.
The offensive line hasn’t opened up running lanes. The passing game hasn’t stretched the field.
And the red zone? A wasteland.
Defensive Talent in Vegas, but Not Enough
To be fair, the Raiders’ defense has some dogs. Maxx Crosby continues to be one of the most disruptive edge rushers in the league, with sacks in four of his last five games and a league-leading 26 tackles for loss. Linebacker Devin White is flying around, racking up 16 tackles and two tackles for loss last week, pushing his season total to 149 - second-most in the NFL.
But this group is on the field too long, asked to do too much, and breaking down late in games. They’re giving up 25.9 points per game, and that includes a 41-point meltdown against Washington.
Against a Texans offense that’s heating up? That’s a problem.
Stroud and the Texans Offense: Clicking at the Right Time
C.J. Stroud looked sharp in Week 15, completing 22 of 29 passes for 260 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions.
That’s a 137.1 passer rating - elite stuff. He’s thrown for 230+ yards and 2+ touchdowns in three of his last four home games.
And now he gets a Raiders defense that’s struggled to contain even average quarterbacks.
The run game is starting to come alive, too. Jawhar Jordan made a splash in his debut with 118 scrimmage yards, while rookie Woody Marks added a fumble recovery touchdown and continues to show flashes.
Nico Collins has emerged as a legit WR1, with 85 receiving yards and two touchdowns last week. That’s his second multi-TD game in three weeks. Tight end Dalton Schultz is back in the mix, too, with eight catches for 76 yards and a score in Week 15.
Offensive coordinator Nick Caley deserves some credit here. After a slow start to the season, he’s found a rhythm with his play-calling, and the Texans have responded with balance and explosiveness.
Texans Defense: Star Power and Depth
This isn’t just a well-coached defense - it’s a loaded one.
- Danielle Hunter has sacks in three straight home games.
- Kamari Lassiter is tied for 4th in the AFC with 14 passes defensed and added an interception last week.
- Calen Bullock and Jalen Pitre continue to make plays in the secondary.
- Henry To’oTo’o and Azeez Al-Shaair are flying around at linebacker, combining for 22 tackles and two tackles for loss last week.
The Texans are deep, fast, and physical at every level. And they’re playing with confidence.
What’s at Stake
The last time these teams met, the Raiders won 38-20. But this isn’t that Texans team. Not even close.
This is a franchise that’s found its identity - built on defense, led by a rising star at quarterback, and coached by a former linebacker who’s instilled toughness and belief in every corner of the locker room.
On the other side, the Raiders are limping toward the finish line, still searching for answers - and maybe soon, a new direction.
Prediction
Unless something truly unexpected happens, this one could get out of hand early. Houston is rolling, and the Raiders just don’t have the firepower to keep up.
Texans 47, Raiders 13.
It could be a long afternoon for the Silver & Black.