Houston Texans vs Los Angeles Rams Picks and Prediction for Sunday, September 7, 2025

By: Jake Allman Updated 09/08/2025, 09:03 AM ET

The Houston Texans head to SoFi Stadium to open the season against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday at 2:25 PM ET. Houston finished the preseason 2-1, including a dominant 26-7 road win over the Lions. Los Angeles went 2-1 as well but dropped its final game 19-17 in Cleveland. Both teams are looking to build on playoff appearances from last season. Crush the gridiron with our unbeatable NFL picks.

Texans Preview

Houston looked sharp on both sides of the ball this preseason, especially in the win over Detroit, where the defense forced multiple turnovers. The offense enters the year with expectations tied to second-year quarterback C.J. Stroud, who will work without Joe Mixon due to a foot injury. Nico Collins remains the top target in the passing game, and rookie additions should give this group more versatility.

Defensively, Houston was aggressive and efficient in August, holding two of three opponents under 10 points. C.J. Gardner-Johnson is questionable with a knee injury, and Denico Autry is still on the PUP list. The Texans will count on Will Anderson Jr. to disrupt from the edge and Fred Warner to lead a linebacker unit that’s fast and physical. The secondary will be tested against the Rams’ vertical game.

Rams Preview

The Rams had a solid preseason, edging the Chargers and Cowboys before a narrow loss to the Browns. Matthew Stafford enters healthy, and that’s the biggest key. Rookie phenom Blake Corum adds a new layer to the rushing attack. The offensive line, however, remains a concern with Alaric Jackson still questionable.

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Defensively, Los Angeles still leans on Aaron Donald up front, but this unit isn’t as dominant as in past years. Jared Verse is questionable and could miss his debut, while multiple linebackers are on the injury list. The Rams gave up 28 points to the Eagles in the playoffs and followed that up by surrendering 19 to Cleveland in preseason Week 3. Communication in the secondary and depth at linebacker are early-season concerns.

Texans vs Rams Pick

Houston looked more consistent in August and brings a more complete defense into Week 1. The Rams still have firepower, but the Texans can pressure Stafford and force mistakes. If Stroud protects the ball and gets help from Collins and the run game, Houston has the edge in this matchup. Final Score Prediction: Texans 24, Rams 20.