A showdown of unbeaten teams takes center stage in the Land of 10,000 Lakes as the Houston Texans visit the Minnesota Vikings this Sunday afternoon. Houston edged out Chicago with a close 19-13 victory at home on Sunday Night Football last week, managing to cover the spread as a six-point favorite. On the other hand, Minnesota pulled off a surprise 23-17 victory against San Francisco at home, triumphing as a four-point underdog. Historically, the Vikings have dominated the regular season series, winning all five previous encounters, including a 31-23 victory on the road in their last meeting on October 4, 2020.
Texans Eyeing a Perfect Start to the Season
Houston faced challenges against the Bears but managed to secure a win at home last weekend. Improving to 2-0, the Texans sit atop the AFC South while the other three teams in their division remain winless. Throughout the game against Chicago, Houston maintained the lead, taking charge at 10-3 with a 28-yard touchdown pass from C.J. Stroud to Nico Collins early in the second quarter. The Texans were ahead 16-10 at halftime, and a defensive stalemate ensued in the second half, where both teams could only add a field goal. Houston outgained Chicago in total offense, recording 310 yards to the Bears’ 205, also forcing two turnovers while committing one. Both squads registered 15 first downs, but Houston fell behind in time of possession, 31:13 to 28:47.
Houston’s current season statistics are noteworthy, ranking 12th in passing offense with an average of 219.5 yards per game and 10th in rushing offense at 144 yards per contest. They sit at 11th in scoring offense, averaging 24 points, while the defense is ranked 12th, allowing 20 points per game. C.J. Stroud has shown promise, completing 47 of 68 attempts for 494 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions. He has been sacked seven times and added 12 rushing yards. Joe Mixon leads the ground attack with 39 carries for 184 yards and one touchdown, followed by Cam Akers and Dameon Pierce. In the receiving department, Nico Collins tops the charts with 14 catches for 252 yards and a score. Other reliable targets include Stefon Diggs, Mixon, Tank Dell, and Dalton Schultz. Ka’imi Fairbairn has been perfect on point-after attempts and field goals, including a long of 59 yards this season.
Vikings Aim for Back-to-Back Upset Victories
Minnesota comes off a surprising win against San Francisco, also improving their record to 2-0. They currently lead the NFC North, where the other teams are all 1-1. In their game against the 49ers, Minnesota took control early, leading 3-0 after the first quarter and extending their lead to 20-7 by the end of the third quarter. They successfully recovered an onside kick in the final moments, allowing them to run out the clock. The Vikings managed a narrow edge in total offense, gaining 403 yards to San Francisco’s 396, despite being behind in first downs, 24-17, and time of possession, 34:48 to 25:12. Both teams had two turnovers, but the Vikings also successfully blocked a punt and halted a 49ers drive at their own two-yard line.
The Vikings’ offensive performance has been strong, ranking 7th in the league for passing offense, averaging 229 yards per game, and 14th in rushing offense with 128.5 yards per contest. They sit 8th in scoring offense, averaging 25.5 points. On defense, they have improved significantly, currently ranked 3rd, allowing only 11.5 points per game. Sam Darnold has completed 36 of 50 passes for 476 yards, with four touchdowns and two interceptions, while also contributing 35 rushing yards. Aaron Jones leads the Vikings’ running game, with Ty Chandler providing solid support. Justin Jefferson stands out as the leading receiver, followed by Jalen Nailor and others. Will Reichard has been reliable on extra points and field goals, remaining perfect in his attempts.
Analyzing Best Bets for Texans vs. Vikings
As both teams stand strong at 2-0, the contrast in their expectations is evident. Houston boasts a potent offense with players like Diggs, Collins, and Schultz, and is under the leadership of Stroud. In contrast, Minnesota has showcased a resilient defense, evidenced by their recent upset against San Francisco. However, it could prove challenging for the Vikings to replicate those defensive feats against a Houston team that has only recorded one turnover this season. Minnesota’s four turnovers in their first two games could be a significant factor in this matchup. With the Texans’ offensive capabilities and strong pass rush, they are positioned well to secure a victory in this contest.
