The Houston Texans visit the New England Patriots in a Week 6 AFC matchup at Gillette Stadium. The Texans, riding high on a two-game winning streak, have surprised many with their strong start to the season under rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud. Stroud has amassed 1,385 passing yards with 7 touchdowns against only 3 interceptions. His primary targets, Nico Collins and Stefon Diggs, have been instrumental in the team’s passing success, while Joe Mixon and Cam Akers lead a balanced ground attack. Houston’s defense has been effective, ranking among the top 10 in passing yards allowed per game and holding opponents to 22.8 points per contest. On the other hand, the Patriots have faced a challenging season with Jacoby Brissett under center after injuries to key starters. Brissett has been steady but unspectacular, throwing for just 696 yards with 2 touchdowns and 1 interception.

The offense has struggled to find its rhythm, averaging a mere 12.4 points per game. Rhamondre Stevenson has been a bright spot, rushing for 356 yards and contributing in the short passing game. However, New England’s defensive efforts have been undermined by their inability to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks, ranking low in sacks and takeaways. The key matchup will be Houston’s high-powered offense against a Patriots defense that has allowed over 20 points in four of their five games. If the Texans can continue to get production from their playmakers and protect C.J. Stroud, they should be able to control the game. Conversely, the Patriots will need to rely on ball control and mistake-free football to keep this contest close. With New England as a home underdog, they could cover the spread, but Houston is the clear favorite to win outright.