Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM ET
Location: NRG Stadium, Houston, TX
TV: —
The Carolina Panthers head to Houston to take on the Texans in a Week 2 preseason matchup that will feature plenty of young talent on display. Carolina is looking to build on an efficient offensive showing from their opener, while Houston hopes to clean up execution after a game marked by penalties and missed opportunities.
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Matchup Overview
Houston enters as a 3-point home favorite with the total set at 38.5. The Panthers are expected to rotate Matt Corral and rookie Spencer Rattler heavily, while the Texans should feature Davis Mills and rookie QB Donovan Smith after C.J. Stroud’s limited first-quarter reps.
Carolina Panthers
On offense, the Panthers moved the ball effectively in their opener with balanced play-calling. Corral showed confidence in his progressions, while Rattler demonstrated quick release and accuracy on short-to-intermediate throws. Defensively, Carolina was strong against the run, holding their opponent under 80 rushing yards, but still allowed a couple of explosive plays through the air. Special teams were a positive factor, highlighted by a 55-yard punt return that set up a short touchdown drive. Carolina is 4-1 ATS in their last five preseason games.
Houston Texans
Houston’s offense flashed potential but was derailed by drive-killing penalties in Week 1. Davis Mills displayed solid command, and rookie RB Jawhar Jordan brought energy to the ground game. Defensively, the Texans were aggressive in bringing pressure, tallying three sacks, but they gave up consistent yardage on crossing routes. Special teams were steady, with reliable placekicking from Ka’imi Fairbairn. The Texans have gone Over in five of their last seven preseason contests.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Panthers O-Line vs. Texans Pass Rush – Houston’s front could test Carolina’s protection schemes.
- Young QBs Under Pressure – Both teams will be evaluating how their backups handle heat.
- Penalty Discipline – Houston must avoid the flags that hurt them last week.
Betting Odds
- Spread: Texans -3 / Panthers +3
- Total (O/U): 38.5
- Moneyline: Texans -155 / Panthers +130
(Odds via ESPN BET at time of writing — subject to change)
Prediction
Carolina’s balanced attack and disciplined defense make them a live underdog here. If Houston can cut down on penalties, they have the edge in the trenches, but the Panthers’ special teams and QB depth give them a chance to steal this one.
Projected Final Score:
Panthers 20 – Texans 19
- Total Points: 39 → ✅ Over 38.5
- Margin: 1 point → ✅ Panthers cover +3
Best Bets
- Panthers +3 (-110) – QB depth and special teams could keep this close.
- Over 38.5 (-110) – Both teams have playmakers capable of breaking big gains.
- First Half Panthers +1.5 (-110) – Early execution could put Carolina ahead at the break.
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