The Houston Texans face the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium in London on Sunday, October 18, with two different starts shaping this AFC South matchup. Houston enters at 1-4 after beating Tennessee 26-3, while Jacksonville sits at 4-1 following a narrow 19-17 victory over Philadelphia. Kickoff is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. ET on NFL Network.

Jacksonville has the advantage of remaining in London after its Week 5 appearance, but Houston brings a dangerous pass rush and renewed confidence. The Texans’ challenge is turning defensive pressure into another victory against a division rival with a stronger early-season résumé.

Texans vs. Jaguars Odds

Texans: +2.5

Jaguars: -2.5

Over: 42.5

Under: 42.5

Watch NFL games LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)

Texans vs. Jaguars Key Injuries

Jacksonville’s biggest concern is the loss of starting left tackle Anton Harrison. He is scheduled for knee surgery and expected to miss at least four games, creating a difficult protection assignment against Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter. That absence could influence how aggressively Jacksonville attacks downfield.

Houston’s offensive depth has also been affected, with Tank Dell still working his way back, Jayden Higgins on injured reserve and David Montgomery week-to-week with an injury of his own. However, the arrival of Marvin Harrison Jr. gives C.J. Stroud another option alongside Nico Collins. Harrison’s immediate workload remains a variable as he adjusts to a new offense.

Texans Betting Trends

Houston’s 1-4 record looks discouraging, but its -2-point differential suggests the team has been more competitive than the standings indicate. The Texans’ convincing win over Tennessee strengthens the case that this matchup could be closer than the records suggest.

The offensive concern is balance. Houston is averaging 79 rushing yards per game and 3.4 yards per carry and now will be without Montgomery, while Jacksonville allows just 63.8 rushing yards per game. That matchup points toward Stroud needing to move the ball through the air rather than relying on consistent rushing production.

Houston’s best betting argument is its defensive front. The Texans have recorded 18 sacks, including seven from Anderson. Against a Jacksonville line missing its starting left tackle, that pressure provides a credible path to an upset.

Jaguars Betting Trends

Jacksonville’s 4-1 start comes with a +53-point differential, giving its favorite status support beyond the win-loss record. The Jaguars have also allowed only seven touchdowns through five games, showing how dominant their defense has been.

Their defensive profile is particularly strong near the goal line. Opponents have converted just 33.3% of red-zone opportunities into touchdowns. Houston could accumulate passing yards without consistently reaching the end zone, which is an important distinction when evaluating the spread and total.

The travel setup also favors Jacksonville. Staying in England removes another international trip from its preparation, while Houston must adjust after traveling overseas. That advantage supports the Jaguars, although it does not erase their protection concerns.

Keys to the Matchup

Article Continues Below

Houston must pressure Trevor Lawrence without sacrificing coverage. Anderson and Hunter can change possessions with sacks, but the Texans need disciplined containment rather than simply chasing the quarterback.

Jacksonville needs manageable third downs. Quick throws and an effective running game would reduce the number of obvious passing situations in which Houston can attack its weakened protection.

Redzone execution could settle the result. Houston must turn promising drives into touchdowns, while Jacksonville needs to avoid allowing pressure to push scoring opportunities backward.

Texans vs. Jaguars Prediction and Pick

Jacksonville deserves respect, but Houston’s pass rush makes taking the points attractive. The Texans can challenge an injury-weakened offensive line, and their passing-game options offer enough upside to threaten the upset.

Expect a competitive divisional game rather than a comfortable Jaguars victory.

Prediction: Texans 23, Jaguars 20