Bills storyline to watch: It may only be Week 5, but the Bills’ defense is already dealing with a variety of challenges, the latest coming with Von Miller’s four-game suspension this week. While middle linebacker Terrel Bernard (pectoral) has a good chance to make it back to the field after missing two games, Buffalo will likely see rookie safety Cole Bishop make his first NFL start — Taylor Rapp is in concussion protocol — while rookie Javon Solomon will see more of a role on the line with Miller out. A tough task will await in the Texans’ offense with QB C.J. Stroud throwing seven passing touchdowns and zero interceptions in his past five home games. — Alaina Getzenberg

Texans storyline to watch: Coach DeMeco Ryans said the Texans are “fired up” for this matchup but said his club won’t lean into the storyline of two AFC contenders. The Bills have the third-highest point differential in the NFL (plus-39), while the Texans are 24th (minus-15), showing the Bills have been more complete through four weeks. The Texans have three wins, but each victory was secured in the last minute after they played sloppy throughout. — DJ Bien-Aime

Stat to know: If Josh Allen doesn’t throw an interception, it will be the longest streak by a Buffalo quarterback to start a season in franchise history.

Bold prediction: Texans wide receiver Tank Dell has 85-plus receiving yards and a touchdown. I’m waiting for the Dell breakout game, and it is coming. The second-year wideout still has a strong 69 open score this season, a sign that his reduced production is likely more a product of increased target competition. — Walder

Fantasy X factor: Texans running back Joe Mixon. Buffalo’s defense is allowing the most fantasy points per game to running backs this season, making it a great matchup for Mixon. He has been rehabbing an ankle sprain for a few weeks, and there was optimism he could return for Week 4 after practicing. He was ultimately ruled out, but this matchup would be perfect for Mixon’s return. — Moody

Betting nugget: Allen is 27-18-2 ATS in his career on the road (13-7-1 ATS as road underdog).

Kahler’s pick: Texans 27, Bills 21

Moody’s pick: Bills 27, Texans 23

Walder’s pick: Texans 27, Bills 24

FPI prediction: BUF, 56.0% (by an average of 2.2 points)