Week 1 of preseason NFL football continues Saturday afternoon in Minneapolis, MN with the Houston Texans taking on the Minnesota Vikings.
We won’t see any of the big names in this game, but we will see a few starters and young studs on each side, especially in the first quarter.
Here are my top Texans vs. Vikings predictions and NFL picks for Week 1 of the preseason on Saturday, August 9.
Texans vs Vikings prediction
Texans vs Vikings Best bet: First Quarter Over 7.5 (+125 at bet365)
We will get to see the NFL debut of 2024 first round pick, J.J. McCarthy, after missing all his rookie season with a torn meniscus.
While he likely will not have any of his top weapons in this debut, he has impressed in camp, and I expect to see a solid start for him.
Wide receiver Jordan Addison is suspended for the first three games of the regular season, so I would not be surprised to see him play to get in those reps he will miss once the regular season starts.
If he plays, then I think it is very likely the Minnesota Vikings score a touchdown in one of their first two drives.
The Houston Texans will likely be starting Davis Mills, but it is not out of question we see a series or two from C.J. Stroud.
Either way, we will see two young rookie wide receivers that are expected to be immediate contributors in the regular season. Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel are big time playmakers.
Regardless of which quarterback starts for the Texans and regardless of how many of the starting receiving options show up for the Vikings, I really like this first quarter Over.
It will require two scores with at least one being a touchdown, but we may see multiple possessions for both teams.
The Vikings will want to see their young quarterback get reps and not just handing the ball off. The Texans will want their young wide receivers to get some looks in the passing game and not just run blocking. We should see some quick scoring.
Texans vs Vikings odds
Texans vs Vikings live odds
Texans vs Vikings opening odds
- Spread: Texans +3 (-105) | Vikings -3 (-115)
- Moneyline: Texans +140 | Vikings -165
- Over/Under: Over 38 (-110) | Under 38 (-110)
How to watch Texans vs Vikings
| Location: | U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN |
| Date: | Saturday, August 9, 2025 |
| Kickoff: | 4:00 p.m. ET |
| TV: | NFL Network |
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