Photo By – Imagn Images. Baker Mayfield and CJ Stroud are pictured.
The Monday Night Football doubleheader kicks off at 7:00 p.m. ET on ESPN and ABC, featuring Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers visiting the Houston Texans. Houston comes in as a 2.5-point favorite at home, with the total set at 42.5 points.
My predictions for the Buccaneers vs. Texans anticipate significant target opportunities for Nico Collins and Dalton Schultz due to injuries affecting Houston’s receiving options.
Predictions for Buccaneers vs Texans
Best bet: Dalton Schultz Over 37.5 receiving yards (-110).
Injuries will likely impact the matchup tonight. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers may be missing both starting tackles—Tristan Wirfs (limited but doubtful) and Luke Goedeke (did not practice Friday, questionable).
Meanwhile, the Houston Texans might be without starting center Jake Andrews due to a high ankle sprain; additionally, Chris Godwin and Christian Kirk are also likely out.
Both teams experienced difficulty running the ball in Week 1, which could lead to increased emphasis on passing plays. Dalton Schultz, not known as a star but in a favorable position, could reap the benefits.
Schultz participated in 54% of snaps with a 60% route involvement against the Rams in Week 1. Sharing time with blocking-tight-end Cade Stover—who has now been ruled out indefinitely with a fractured foot—opens up more opportunities for Schultz.
This is crucial as Houston’s secondary receiving options are lacking. Following Nico Collins, the Texans have utilized Xavier Hutchinson (68% snap share), Justin Watson (56%), and rookies Jayden Higgins (43%) and Jaylin Noel (27%). Nick Chubb is also not a significant contributor in the passing game.
In Week 1, Schultz had 3 catches for 28 yards on five targets, but with a projected six to seven targets and less competition from receivers, he could record four to five receptions and 45+ yards. The Buccaneers allowed seven catches to Kyle Pitts on eight targets last week.
Same-Game Parlay for Buccaneers vs Texans
Due to missing offensive linemen on both teams and subpar running performances in Week 1, expect a more pass-oriented game in Houston, which benefits from the indoor conditions.
Nico Collins stands out as the primary receiver and faces a Tampa Bay defense that struggled against Drake London in Week 1. On the Buccaneers side, Mike Evans led with both air yards and targets, while rookie Emeka Egbuka turned four catches into 67 yards, showing he will also be heavily involved, especially with Chris Godwin out.
Buccaneers vs Texans Same-Game Parlay
- Nico Collins 70+ receiving yards
- Mike Evans 70+ receiving yards
- Emeka Egbuka 50+ receiving yards
- Dalton Schultz 40+ receiving yards
Big-Ticket Same-Game Parlay: All Pass, No Breaks
Bucky Irving had a 64% route share to Rachaad White’s 12%, suggesting he will have significant involvement in the game, especially under new offensive chief Liam Coen.
Schultz should be a key player in the red zone, particularly since Nick Chubb has not been effective in the running game, alongside a receiving corps that lacks experience. The injury to Stover should further increase Schultz’s usage on Monday night.
Buccaneers vs Texans Big-Ticket SGP
- Bucky Irving 30+ receiving yards
- Bucky Irving TD
- Dalton Schultz 50+ receiving yards
- Dalton Schultz TD
Game Predictions for Buccaneers vs Texans
Moneyline Prediction
Given Houston’s lackluster offensive output last week, it’s hard to feel confident in their offense. They struggled under a new offensive coordinator and ranked 31st in offensive success rate in Week 1, while Tampa Bay displayed better offensive capabilities.
Spread Prediction
I’m hesitant to lay -2.5 with Houston tonight. Tampa Bay’s offense showed it can change quickly, unlike Houston’s, which is not set up to win by a significant margin given their performance last week.
Over/Under Prediction
Although I usually favor indoor Overs, the injuries to both offensive lines and the potential for penalties make me lean towards the Under 42.5. The total has shifted from an opening of 46.5 to 42.5 by Monday night.
Current Odds for Buccaneers vs Texans
- Spread: Tampa Bay +2.5 (-105) | Houston -2.5 (-115)
- Moneyline: Tampa Bay +125 | Houston -150
- Over/Under: Over 42.5 (-110) | Under 42.5 (-110)
Important Betting Trend
The Texans have only surpassed the Over in six of their last 22 games, resulting in a –10.60 units (-44% ROI). Explore more NFL betting trends related to this match.
How to Watch Buccaneers vs Texans
| Location | NRG Stadium, Houston, TX |
| Date | Monday, September 15, 2025 |
| Kickoff | 7:00 p.m. ET |
| TV | ESPN and ABC |
Discover how to stream the game tonight.
Additional Predictions for Buccaneers vs Texans
Latest Injuries for Buccaneers vs Texans
Weather Conditions for Buccaneers vs Texans
Stay updated with our live NFL weather information and learn how weather affects betting.
Odds are accurate at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our expert team thoroughly researches and selects products featured on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up via our links.
