Game Preview Houston Texans @ Arizona Cardinals
The Houston Texans travel west to face the Arizona Cardinals on December 14, 2025, in a non-conference matchup with playoff significance—at least for the visiting Texans. Houston continues its push for a Wild Card spot behind its rising young core, while Arizona plays spoiler as they build toward next season.
The Cardinals have struggled to find consistency this year but have shown flashes at home with an improved run game and more discipline defensively. Meanwhile, Houston has leaned on efficient quarterback play and a top-10 scoring defense to stay in the AFC hunt.
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Odds and Key Information
Houston opened as a 5.5-point road favorite with the total set at 44. The market has slightly leaned toward the Texans, with some books adjusting the spread to -6. The total has stayed stable, indicating moderate confidence in a mid-scoring affair.
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Houston Texans Outlook
The Houston Texans have become one of the league’s most surprising success stories, led by their efficient young quarterback and a top-tier receiving corps. Houston’s offensive line has improved protection metrics week over week, and they’ve converted on over 46% of third downs since Week 8.
On the defensive side, the Texans are forcing takeaways at an elite rate and rank top five in red zone defense. The secondary has tightened coverage, while the front seven continues to disrupt pocket timing with a high-pressure rate.
Looking to invest in the Texans’ playoff potential? Check out our AFC futures breakdown to see where they stack up in the Wild Card picture.
Arizona Cardinals Outlook
The Arizona Cardinals are rebuilding, but their offense has gained stability behind a dual-threat quarterback and a solidified ground game. James Conner has been efficient in recent weeks, and Arizona has leaned into time-of-possession strategies to keep games manageable.
Defensively, the Cardinals still struggle in coverage and have a bottom-five pass rush. However, they’ve played better at home, forcing key stops on third down and showing more discipline in penalties and gap control. Expect Arizona to play loose and aggressively as they attempt to spoil Houston’s postseason push.
Get deeper into Arizona’s long-term outlook with our team-by-team breakdowns in the NFL futures blog.
Key Matchup
The biggest mismatch is Houston’s passing attack versus Arizona’s secondary. The Cardinals allow over 250 pass yards per game and have struggled to defend explosive plays downfield. Houston should be able to stretch the field early and force Arizona into catch-up mode.
On the other side, Arizona’s best chance lies in running the ball effectively to keep Houston’s offense off the field. If Conner can establish tempo and Arizona limits turnovers, they’ll stay within striking range.
Explore how to attack soft secondaries with NFL prop bet value based on matchups like this.
Betting Trends
Houston is 6-2 against the spread in its last eight games and 4-1 ATS on the road this season. The under has hit in five of their last six games. Arizona is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten home contests but has covered two of its last three as a home underdog. The over has hit in four of the last five Cardinals games.
Stay informed with the most actionable trends in our NFL betting insights blog updated weekly.
Prediction
This is a classic late-season spot where motivation, talent, and execution all favor the playoff contender. Houston has more to play for, a better quarterback, and the defensive edge. Arizona will compete, especially early at home, but the Texans’ depth and consistency will prevail late.
Final prediction: Texans 26, Cardinals 17
Spread Pick: Texans -5.5
Total Lean: Under 44
For similar matchup breakdowns, check out our Thursday Night Football betting preview for trends on non-conference clashes.
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Why You Need Expert Picks
Games like Texans vs Cardinals are where sharp bettors capitalize. Understanding motivation, matchups, and line movement late in the year is critical—and expert picks bring the clarity you need.
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If you’re eyeing futures beyond Week 15, explore Super Bowl predictions, Coach of the Year candidates, and the NFL playoff outlook.
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