The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are set to take on the Houston Texans in Week 2 of the NFL season, Monday, September 15, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. ET at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. This prime time matchup will be broadcast on ABC and ESPN.
Game Preview
The Buccaneers are coming off a 23-20 win against the Atlanta Falcons, while the Texans lost 14-9 to the Los Angeles Rams. Tampa Bay is seeking a fifth straight 2-0 season start, but they’ll need to overcome their 0-5 record against the Texans in Houston. The Texans, meanwhile, are looking to bounce back from their Week 1 loss and even their record at home.
Key Matchups
- Baker Mayfield vs. Houston’s Pass Rush: Mayfield had a solid game against the Falcons, throwing for 167 yards and three touchdowns. However, he’ll face a tough test against the Texans’ edge rushers, Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter.
- C.J. Stroud vs. Buccaneers’ Defense: Stroud torched the Buccaneers for 470 yards and five touchdowns in their last meeting. The Texans will need Stroud to play well again if they want to win.
- Emeka Egbuka vs. Houston’s Secondary: Egbuka had two touchdowns in his debut against the Falcons. He’ll need to continue his strong play to help the Buccaneers’ offense.
Injury Report
- Chris Godwin: The Buccaneers’ wide receiver returned to practice on a limited basis and has been ruled out for Monday night.
- Tristan Wirfs: The left tackle also returned to practice and has been ruled out against the Texans.
- Jake Andrews: The Texans’ center is out with an ankle injury
Betting Odds
The Texans are favored by 2.5 points, with the over/under set at 42.5 points. Some analysts predict the Buccaneers will cover the spread, given their strong performance in Week 1 and the Texans’ struggles.
Fantasy
Here’s who we think you should start, sit, and two sleepers for your fantasy team.
Start ‘Em
- Emeka Egbuka: Egbuka’s chemistry with Baker Mayfield seems to be growing, and he has a favorable matchup against the Texans. With 23.60 fantasy points in his debut, Egbuka is a promising start, especially if he continues to build on his early success.
- Baker Mayfield: Mayfield has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in big games. With the Buccaneers trying to secure a 2-0 start, Mayfield is likely to be involved heavily in the offense. His ability to extend plays and make accurate throws should serve him well against the Texans.
Sit ‘Em
- Cade Otton: Otton might struggle to find opportunities in the passing game, especially with the Buccaneers’ receiving corps and the Texans’ pass rush. Unless there’s a significant change in the game script, Otton might not see enough targets to justify starting him.
- Payne Durham: As a tight end with limited involvement in the passing game, Durham might not see enough targets to make a significant impact.
Sleepers
- Rachaad White: White could see a boost in carries and targets if the Buccaneers try to control the clock or exploit a weakness in the Texans’ defense.
- Sterling Shepard: Shepard has been working his way back from injury and could see increased playing time with Chris Godwin out. If the Buccaneers need a reliable target, Shepard might be a sleeper pick.
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