NFL WEEK 6 | HOUSTON TEXANS (1–4) vs. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (4–1)

Sunday, October 18, 2026 | Wembley Stadium, London | 9:30 AM ET

There is more than a divisional victory at stake when the Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars meet across the Atlantic on Sunday morning.

For Houston, it's about survival. For Jacksonville, it's an opportunity to take another significant step toward capturing the AFC South crown.

The Texans enter this matchup at 1–4, desperately needing a victory to keep their postseason aspirations alive. Meanwhile, Jacksonville is sitting comfortably at 4–1 and has an opportunity to push one of its biggest divisional challengers further down the standings.

A Jaguars victory would send Houston to 1–5. A Texans victory would cut Jacksonville's divisional lead over Houston and potentially change the direction of both teams' seasons.

THE PRESSURE IS ON.

The Return of Stroud and Harrison

One of the biggest storylines entering Sunday's game is the reunion of C.J. Stroud and Marvin Harrison Jr.

Houston's newest receiving weapon is expected to make his Texans debut against Jacksonville, reuniting two former Ohio State teammates.

Stroud has thrown for 1,402 yards, six touchdowns and zero interceptions through five games. Harrison gives Houston another dangerous receiving threat alongside Nico Collins.

Although Harrison is still learning the Texans' offense, his existing relationship with Stroud could help accelerate his transition.

Houston needs an offensive spark, and the timing of his arrival couldn't be better.

Matchup to Watch: Will Anderson Jr. vs. Jacksonville's Offensive Line

Houston's biggest advantage could come from its defensive front.

The Texans have recorded 18 sacks through five games, with Will Anderson Jr. accounting for 7.5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss.

Jacksonville will also be without injured starting left tackle Anton Harrison, placing additional responsibility on Walker Little.

The Jaguars cannot afford to allow Anderson and Danielle Hunter to dictate this football game.

Houston's pass rush could ultimately determine whether Trevor Lawrence has enough time to attack the Texans' secondary.

Jacksonville Must Establish the Run

The Jaguars have rushed for 571 yards compared to Houston's 395.

Bhayshul Tuten has provided Jacksonville with an explosive rushing option, accumulating 349 yards on 82 attempts.

Jacksonville must establish its running game early to prevent Houston from turning this matchup into a pass-rushing exhibition.

The Texans, meanwhile, need more production from their own backfield. Their inability to consistently establish the run has forced Stroud to shoulder too much of the offensive responsibility.

S³ Keys to Victory

HOUSTON TEXANS

  • Protect the football.
  • Establish a productive rushing attack.
  • Make Trevor Lawrence uncomfortable in the pocket.
  • Take advantage of Harrison's arrival.
  • Keep Jacksonville below its 24.6-point scoring average.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

  • Establish the running game early.
  • Protect Lawrence against Houston's defensive front.
  • Force Stroud into his first interception of the season.
  • Control the time of possession.
  • Prevent Houston from gaining early momentum.

S³ OFFICIAL PREDICTION

HOUSTON TEXANS 24, JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS 17

Jacksonville has been the better football team through five games. Nevertheless, this is a difficult matchup for an offensive line dealing with injuries.

Houston's defensive front has the ability to take over this game, and I expect Anderson to be a major factor.

The addition of Harrison should provide Stroud with another option in the passing game, while Houston's defense makes enough plays to keep Jacksonville's offense under control.

The Jaguars have familiarity with playing in London, but desperation can be a powerful motivator.

I'm taking Houston to deliver its biggest victory of the young season.

The Texans survive. The Jaguars miss an opportunity to pull away. The AFC South race gets a little more interesting.

S³ | Sweet Science Sports