The Los Angeles Chargers and Houston Texans open their respective preseason schedules Thursday night, with plenty of attention on the reserve quarterbacks and players battling for roster spots.
Houston enters as a 1.5-point favorite with a total of 36.5, but our Chargers vs. Texans predictions are siding with Los Angeles and its quarterback depth behind Trey Lance and DJ Uiagalelei.
With both teams expected to rest a significant number of regulars, read on for our free NFL picks for Aug. 13 to find some clarity.
Chargers vs Texans predictions
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Who will win Chargers vs Texans: Chargers moneyline
The Los Angeles Chargers are the side I want after moving from an opening favorite to a small underdog.
Trey Lance returns as last year's QB2, while DJ Uiagalelei has pushed him throughout camp after looking particularly sharp during the offseason program.
The Houston Texans have the steadier Davis Mills, but Graham Mertz averaged only 5.4 yards per attempt with three interceptions on 32 preseason throws last year.
Getting plus money with the quarterback rotation I prefer is enough to put me on Los Angeles. Not to mention, the entrance of new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel should give L.A. a nice tactical advantage against a Texans offense that was reasonably predictable a season ago.
Chargers vs Texans Over/Under pick: Over 36.5
I think we're going to see a wide trend of preseason games flying Over for a variety of reasons, and this one should be no different. I'd play the Over to 38.5.
The Bolts' four preseason games last year finished with 41, 40, 45 and 53 combined points, clearing this number every time.
Houston went the other direction, but its reserve offense has flashed more explosiveness in camp and will be pressing to get up to speed quicker with a shorter preseason.
And, yet again, the creative McDaniel should be a factor here getting his first reps as a Chargers playcaller. Both teams only need to reach the high teens for this number to clear.
Chargers vs Texans live odds
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Chargers vs Texans weather
NRG Stadium has a retractable roof but is expected to be closed Thursday night, meaning weather won't be a factor.
How to watch Chargers vs Texans
| Location | NRG Stadium, Houston, TX |
| Date | Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026 |
| Kickoff | 8 p.m. ET |
| TV | NFL+ |
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