Houston Texans vs Arizona Cardinals Prediction & Picks - NFL

Prediction published on 12/14/25, 9:52 AM  by Simon Day | Modified on 1/15/26 at 9:26 AM in NFL Picks

The surging 8-5 Houston Texans host the 3-10 Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, knowing that a victory will move them a big step closer to securing a place in the AFC playoffs. 

After starting the campaign 0-3, things were looking bleak in Houston. However, a dramatic turnaround in form has seen them win eight of their last ten games, including victories over all three of their AFC South rivals. In reality, 10 wins should be enough to earn a postseason berth, so if the Texnas can win on Sunday, plus defeat the 2-11 Raiders next week, they will be virtually assured of their playoff place. 

In stark contrast to the Texans, Arizona started the season 2-0, but have subsequently fallen apart and are already eliminated from playoff contention. Last week's 17-45 thrashing at the hands of the Rams was the Cards' worst display of the campaign and huge offseason changes are needed if HC Jonathan Gannon wants to turn Arizona into 2026 playoff contenders.