Houston Texans vs Jacksonville Jaguars Preview – Sunday, December 1

The Houston Texans visit EverBank Stadium to face the Jacksonville Jaguars in a Week 13 AFC South matchup. The Texans (7-5) look to solidify their division lead, while the Jaguars (2-9) hope to end a four-game losing streak. Kickoff is set for 1:00 PM ET.
This is the second meeting between these teams this season, with Houston narrowly defeating Jacksonville 24-20 in Week 4. Both teams have faced challenges recently, making this a critical game for different reasons.
Houston Texans
The Texans are coming off a tough 32-27 loss to the Tennessee Titans. Quarterback C.J. Stroud threw for 247 yards and two touchdowns but also had two interceptions. Stroud has faced increasing defensive pressure this season and will need to protect the ball against a struggling Jaguars defense.
Running back Joe Mixon has been a steady presence, but the Texans will look for more consistency from their offensive line to open running lanes. Stroud’s key targets, including wide receivers Tank Dell and Nico Collins, must step up to exploit Jacksonville’s secondary, which ranks last in the league.
Defensively, the Texans have been hit with injuries, including to standout defensive end Will Anderson Jr. and safety Jalen Pitre. Houston’s defense will need to contain Jacksonville’s ground game, led by Travis Etienne, to avoid a potential upset.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars suffered a humiliating 52-6 loss to the Detroit Lions last week, marking their fourth consecutive defeat. Quarterback Mac Jones will likely start again as Trevor Lawrence remains limited due to a shoulder injury. Jones has struggled in his limited opportunities and will need to play efficiently to keep Jacksonville competitive.
Running back Travis Etienne remains the centerpiece of Jacksonville’s offense, but he’ll need help from the offensive line to create opportunities. The Jaguars’ receiving corps, led by Gabe Davis and Evan Engram, faces a tough matchup against Houston’s secondary despite their injury woes.
Defensively, Jacksonville has struggled mightily, ranking last in total defense. Coach Doug Pederson has emphasized adjustments in both the run and pass games, but significant improvement is needed to slow down Houston’s balanced offensive attack.
Pick and Prediction
Houston holds the edge with their superior roster and playoff aspirations. Jacksonville’s defensive struggles and uncertainty at quarterback make it challenging for them to pull off a win. Expect the Texans to control the game on both sides of the ball.
- Prediction: Houston Texans 27, Jacksonville Jaguars 17