The Jacksonville Jaguars and Houston Texans meet for an important AFC South showdown at NRG Stadium on Sunday, September 29, 2024. The Texans are off to a strong start this season, entering the game with a 2-1 record and looking to bounce back from a tough 34-7 loss to the Vikings. Led by second-year quarterback C.J. Stroud, Houston’s offense has been efficient, particularly in their two wins against the Colts and Bears, where Stroud passed for over 500 yards combined. With a strong rushing attack anchored by veteran running back Joe Mixon, the Texans have found a balanced offensive approach that has kept opposing defenses on their heels.

The Jaguars, on the other hand, are struggling. After being blown out by the Bills 47-10, they have fallen to 0-3 on the season. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence has been unable to find consistency behind a shaky offensive line, and while running back Travis Etienne Jr. has shown flashes of brilliance, the Jaguars’ offense has been largely ineffective. Defensively, Jacksonville has struggled mightily, allowing 28.3 points per game, and will need a more disciplined effort to contain the Texans’ balanced offensive attack. The Jaguars’ recent history against the Texans does not bode well, as they are 1-5 SU in their last six trips to Houston. The Texans are currently favored by 6 points, and with Jacksonville’s poor form, Houston seems primed to cover the spread in front of their home crowd. The key to this game will likely be whether the Jaguars can protect Lawrence and establish a more effective ground game, while the Texans will look to capitalize on Jacksonville’s defensive struggles.