Buffalo Bills vs. Houston Texans odds, expert tips, how to watch: Star matchup between Josh Allen and CJ Stroud

Are the stars big and bright at night “deep in the heart of Texas”? The Buffalo Bills will have to answer that question this weekend when star quarterback Josh Allen leads the team against the formidable Houston Texans. The odds in this game suggest that it is essentially a coincidence.

Last weekend, Allen didn't finish the game when his team suffered a loss in Baltimore. In the end, Buffalo was on the bench in a 35-10 loss, and Allen played no role. The Bills' second-ranked offense will need his versatility against a Houston defense that makes it difficult for opponents to move the chains.

The 65 first downs the Texans have allowed are the fifth fewest in the NFL. What's impressive is that defensive coordinator Matt Burke has both the run defense and the pass defense, which ranks fourth in passing yards allowed per game, playing well.

Yes, Allen will of course be the key. But two weapons are critical for Buffalo — and one is hitting the market this week. Running back James Cook has 227 rushing yards and three touchdowns and is active this week. But receiver Khalil Shakir (18 receptions for 230 yards, two touchdowns) is out this week with an ankle injury.

A key player is also out in Houston. Running back Joe Mixon is out for Sunday's game with an ankle injury. The Texans had hoped Mixoon could return to back up QB CJ Stroud.

Last Sunday, the second-year senior led the Texans in the final seconds to win the game. 'Mature' is the operative word for Stroud, but with Mixon still unavailable to take his handoffs, can we expect him to pull magic from his right shoulder every week?

All odds from BetMGM. Looking for NFL tickets? Find them here.

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Buffalo Bills and Houston Texans odds

How to watch Bills vs. Texans

• Venue: NRG Stadium – Houston
• Time: 1 p.m. ET
• TV: CBS
• Streaming: Fubo (try for free)

Expert tips for Bills vs. Texans

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(Photo by CJ Stroud: Tim Warner/Getty Images)