Updated: April 24, 2025
The NFL Playoffs are heating up, and this weekend’s Divisional Round showdown between the Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs promises to be an electrifying battle. The Texans are coming in hot after dismantling the Chargers 32-12, but now they face the ultimate challenge—taking down Patrick Mahomes and the reigning Super Bowl champions at Arrowhead Stadium, where the Chiefs are an unbeaten 8-0 at home this season.
For bettors, this game presents an intriguing opportunity. With the spread set at Texans +9 and Chiefs -9, the oddsmakers are giving Kansas City a significant edge, but don’t count out Houston just yet. Whether you're backing the underdog or rolling with the champs, BetNow has the best odds for this must-watch playoff matchup.
I remember watching the Texans' last trip to Kansas City in the playoffs—back in 2020, when they jumped out to a shocking 24-0 lead before Mahomes and the Chiefs roared back with 41 unanswered points. That game was a wild rollercoaster, and with a new-look Texans squad under rookie sensation C.J. Stroud, this one has all the makings of another thriller.
Texans vs. Chiefs: Team Breakdown & Key Stats
Houston Texans (11-7, 6-3 Road)
The Texans are one of the NFL’s biggest surprises this season, thanks to the incredible play of rookie QB C.J. Stroud and first-year head coach DeMeco Ryans. Houston’s offense has been explosive, averaging 26.2 PPG over the last five games, and their defense has been opportunistic, forcing key turnovers.
- C.J. Stroud (Texans QB): 4,109 yards, 27 TDs, 5 INTs (regular season)
- Nico Collins (WR1): 1,297 yards, 9 TDs
- Texans Defense: 3rd in rush defense (89.3 YPG allowed)
What makes the Texans dangerous is Stroud’s poise under pressure. He carved up the Chargers last week, throwing for 321 yards and 3 TDs, and he has yet to throw an interception in his young playoff career. If Houston’s offensive line can give him time, he has the weapons to challenge Kansas City’s elite secondary.
Kansas City Chiefs (12-5, 8-0 Home)
The defending champions know how to handle big moments. Led by Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs have overcome offensive struggles this season but remain a force thanks to their No. 2-ranked defense (17.3 PPG allowed) and Mahomes’ playoff magic.
- Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs QB): 4,183 yards, 27 TDs, 14 INTs
- Travis Kelce (TE1): 984 yards, 5 TDs
- Chiefs Defense: 2nd in total yards allowed (289.8 YPG)
While Mahomes hasn’t put up his usual gaudy numbers, Kansas City’s defense has been the real MVP. Chris Jones and the pass rush will be key in making Stroud uncomfortable, while the secondary, led by Trent McDuffie and L’Jarius Sneed, will look to lock down Nico Collins and the Texans' receivers.
Betting Odds & Analysis (via BetNow)
- Spread: Texans +9 (-110) | Chiefs -9 (-110)
- Moneyline: Texans +300 | Chiefs -380
- Over/Under: 47.5 (-105)
Kansas City being favored by 9 points reflects their home dominance and playoff experience, but Houston has been one of the best teams against the spread (ATS), covering in 6 of their last 7 games. If Stroud stays composed and the Texans’ defense slows down Mahomes, +9 is a tempting bet for Houston backers.
- Betting Tip #1: Texans +9 is worth considering, as Houston has been 6-1 ATS in their last seven games.
- Betting Tip #2: Chiefs 1H (-5.5) could be a strong bet, as Mahomes has historically come out fast in playoff games.
- Betting Tip #3: Over 47.5 points looks appealing if both offenses start clicking early.
Game Prediction & Best Bets
This game hinges on whether the Texans can handle the pressure of Arrowhead and find a way to contain Mahomes. Houston’s defense has been solid all season, but stopping playoff Mahomes at home is another challenge entirely.
Final Score Prediction: Chiefs 27, Texans 23
- Best Bet: Texans +9
- Value Bet: Over 47.5
- Prop Bet: C.J. Stroud Over 1.5 Passing TDs
No matter which side you’re backing, this is a must-watch playoff battle. Get your bets in now at BetNow and take advantage of the best odds for this Divisional Round thriller!
