Expert prediction
NFL Preseason Week 1: Texans vs. Vikings Preview, Odds, Picks (Aug 8)
- Texans vs. Vikings is an interconference matchup.
- Justin Jefferson won’t play.
- Vikes are favored by one point here.
JJ McCarthy starts here, as he is the new No.1 QB for the Vikings, who decided to take risks with the youngster. Let’s see how that one goes.
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How to Watch
- When: Friday, August 8, 4 pm ET
- Where: US Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- How to Watch: NFL Net
Texans vs. Vikings Odds
Game Preview
Diggs isn’t in Texas anymore, so CJ Stroud needs to find him a new favorite target. Guys like Nico Collins can take that burden, yet DeMeco Ryans needs to find him more suitable options in the attack. That’s why Texans drafted Jayden Higgins in the second round.
Also, that’s why Houston took Nick Chubb, arguably one of the best RBs in the league. And all of them are expected to get some reps in this event.
As for the Vikes, the JJ McCarthy era starts now. Young QB didn’t play due to his injury last year, but is now a starter, and we are pretty sure that Kevin O’Connell plans to use him in this game. McCarthy needs to feel the intensity and slowly prepare for the upcoming challenges.
If he plays, there’s no doubt that most of the receiving core will play as well, as they have to create chemistry on the field. That’s why we expect to see many Vikes’ starters involved.
Texans vs. Vikings Head to Head
In six matches so far, the Vikings have won each one. Last was in September 2024, when Minnesota blew away the Texans at home, 34-7.
Texans vs. Vikings Predictions
We pick the home team to win because McCarthy needs playing time, and therefore, all the other offensive starters will appear and play. Meanwhile, Texans don’t have to put their starters on the field too long, and they will play with backups most of the time.
- Free NFL Picks: Minnesota Vikings
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