The Week 4 matchup between the Houston Texans and the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, September 29, 2024, at 12:00 PM ET, promises to be a thrilling AFC South showdown. Both teams are looking to establish themselves within the division, with the Jaguars eyeing a strong playoff run after a successful 2023 season, and the Texans continuing to rebuild with their young core of players.
This game features two franchises in different phases of development, but both with plenty of exciting talent on both sides of the ball. The Jaguars, led by rising star quarterback Trevor Lawrence, are considered favorites in the AFC South, while the Texans, under second-year quarterback C.J. Stroud, are looking to build on flashes of potential from their young roster.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about this Week 4 matchup, including how to watch the game, a detailed preview of both teams, key players to watch, betting odds, predictions, and more.
How to Watch Texans vs. Jaguars
For fans wanting to catch every minute of this exciting AFC South contest, there are plenty of ways to watch or stream the game, from traditional TV to streaming services.
1. Television Broadcast
- Network: CBS
- Kickoff Time: 12:00 PM ET (11:00 AM CT)
CBS will carry the game live across most regional markets, with a crew of top-tier analysts providing in-depth coverage and commentary. As a nationally televised AFC South clash, the game will attract a significant viewership, especially for fans of both teams or those interested in following the development of two promising quarterbacks.
2. Streaming Options
For fans who prefer to stream the game live, there are several streaming services available:
- FuboTV: FuboTV is a fantastic option for sports fans, offering CBS in most regions. It also includes DVR capabilities, so you can record the game to watch later. FuboTV offers a free trial for new subscribers, making it easy to catch the Texans vs. Jaguars game without a long-term commitment.
- Hulu + Live TV: With Hulu’s Live TV package, you can stream the game live on CBS. Hulu’s package not only includes live sports, but also provides access to their vast library of TV shows and movies, making it an all-in-one entertainment solution.
- Paramount+: Since CBS broadcasts the game, Paramount+ is a perfect option for live streaming. Paramount+ includes live access to CBS games, and it’s an affordable way to watch the game on your preferred device.
- YouTube TV: YouTube TV provides CBS access in most areas and offers unlimited cloud DVR, allowing you to record and rewatch the game as many times as you’d like.
- NFL Plus: For those on the go, NFL Plus is an excellent option for streaming the game on mobile devices. NFL Plus allows fans to watch live local and primetime games, ensuring that you can follow all the action, even while away from your TV.
No matter where you are, or how you prefer to watch, there are numerous ways to enjoy the Texans vs. Jaguars matchup live.
Game Preview: Houston Texans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
The Texans and Jaguars have been AFC South rivals since Jacksonville’s entry into the NFL in 1995, and each matchup adds another layer to the history of this divisional rivalry. With the Jaguars on the rise and the Texans building for the future, this Week 4 showdown will be a key game in shaping the early season narrative for both teams.
Houston Texans Overview
The Houston Texans enter the 2024 season with high hopes for a brighter future. After a few challenging years of rebuilding, the franchise now has a potential franchise quarterback in C.J. Stroud, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Stroud showed flashes of brilliance as a rookie, and under the leadership of head coach DeMeco Ryans, the Texans are beginning to forge an identity as a tough, competitive team on both sides of the ball.
On offense, the Texans have a mix of young and veteran talent. Dameon Pierce, the powerful running back, is the focal point of the rushing attack and can be a game-changer when he gets going. Wide receiver Nico Collins and tight end Dalton Schultz offer solid receiving options for Stroud, while rookie receiver Tank Dell adds speed and playmaking ability to the offense.
Defensively, Houston is looking to improve after a shaky 2023 season. With head coach DeMeco Ryans, a former standout defensive coordinator with the 49ers, at the helm, the Texans’ defense is expected to take a step forward in 2024. Players like defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins, linebacker Christian Harris, and standout rookie defensive end Will Anderson Jr., the No. 3 overall pick in 2023, are all expected to play pivotal roles in stifling opposing offenses.
Key Players for the Texans:
- C.J. Stroud (QB): Stroud is the Texans’ franchise quarterback, and how he performs in his second year will be crucial to Houston’s success. His decision-making, accuracy, and ability to make plays under pressure will be under the microscope.
- Dameon Pierce (RB): Pierce is a powerful runner who can break tackles and gain yards after contact. He’s vital to the Texans’ ability to control the clock and establish a balanced offensive attack.
- Will Anderson Jr. (DE): Anderson is a game-wrecker off the edge, capable of pressuring the quarterback and disrupting the run game. The Texans will rely on him to create havoc in the Jaguars’ backfield.
Jacksonville Jaguars Overview
The Jacksonville Jaguars are entering the 2024 season with high expectations, following a breakout 2023 campaign in which they won the AFC South and made a playoff push. Under head coach Doug Pederson, the Jaguars have developed into a well-balanced, dynamic team with a bright future ahead.
At the center of the Jaguars’ success is quarterback Trevor Lawrence. The former No. 1 overall pick in 2021 has shown steady growth, and many believe he’s on the verge of entering the elite tier of NFL quarterbacks. With his strong arm, mobility, and high football IQ, Lawrence is the engine of Jacksonville’s high-powered offense.
Lawrence has a wealth of weapons at his disposal, including star wide receiver Calvin Ridley, who joined the team in 2023 after serving a suspension. Ridley brings speed and elite route-running ability to the Jaguars’ offense, complementing the talents of Christian Kirk and Zay Jones. Additionally, tight end Evan Engram provides a reliable target in the middle of the field, while running back Travis Etienne Jr., a dynamic dual-threat, gives the Jaguars another weapon both on the ground and through the air.
Defensively, the Jaguars are led by edge rusher Josh Allen and linebacker Foyesade Oluokun, both of whom are critical in controlling the line of scrimmage. The secondary, featuring cornerbacks Tyson Campbell and Darius Williams, is solid, but they’ll need to perform well against Houston’s passing attack.
Key Players for the Jaguars:
- Trevor Lawrence (QB): Lawrence is the face of the Jaguars franchise, and his ability to lead the offense efficiently will be crucial. If Lawrence can avoid turnovers and make plays with his arm and legs, Jacksonville will be difficult to stop.
- Calvin Ridley (WR): Ridley is one of the top deep threats in the NFL, and he’ll test Houston’s secondary throughout the game. His chemistry with Lawrence is still developing, but Ridley has the potential for a breakout performance.
- Josh Allen (DE): Allen is a force off the edge, capable of dominating opposing offensive linemen. His ability to disrupt C.J. Stroud will be key in the Jaguars’ defensive game plan.
Key Matchups to Watch
Several intriguing matchups on both sides of the ball will play a significant role in determining the outcome of this game. Here are some of the key matchups to watch:
1. Trevor Lawrence vs. Texans Secondary
Trevor Lawrence has the ability to dissect defenses with his precision passing, but the Texans’ young secondary, featuring cornerback Derek Stingley Jr., will look to make life difficult for the Jaguars quarterback. Stingley is a talented cover corner with the ability to shadow top receivers, and how he handles the matchup against Calvin Ridley will be critical. Additionally, safety Jalen Pitre will need to be on his game to help limit Jacksonville’s deep passing attack.
2. C.J. Stroud vs. Jaguars Pass Rush
C.J. Stroud will face a tough test against Jacksonville’s pass rush, led by Josh Allen and Travon Walker. The Jaguars will look to apply pressure and force Stroud into mistakes. If Houston’s offensive line, anchored by Laremy Tunsil, can protect Stroud and give him time to throw, the Texans could find success through the air. However, if Jacksonville’s pass rush dominates, it could be a long day for the Texans’ offense.
3. Dameon Pierce vs. Jaguars Run Defense
The Texans will likely lean heavily on Dameon Pierce to establish the run and control the pace of the game on Sunday. Pierce is a powerful runner with the ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact, and he will be the focal point of the Texans’ offense. Jacksonville’s run defense, led by linebacker Foyesade Oluokun and defensive lineman Folorunso Fatukasi, will need to step up and contain Pierce if they hope to limit Houston’s offensive production. If the Jaguars can shut down the run, they can force C.J. Stroud into difficult passing situations, which could lead to turnovers or stalled drives.
4. Calvin Ridley vs. Texans Secondary
The matchup between Calvin Ridley and Houston’s secondary, specifically Derek Stingley Jr., will be one of the most important battles on the field. Ridley’s ability to stretch the defense and create separation will test Stingley’s skills in man-to-man coverage. Ridley is known for his precise route running and speed, which makes him a dangerous weapon in the Jaguars’ passing game. How well Stingley can contain Ridley and prevent big plays down the field will have a major impact on the Jaguars’ offensive success.
5. Will Anderson Jr. vs. Jaguars Offensive Line
One of the most exciting matchups to watch will be between rookie pass rusher Will Anderson Jr. and the Jaguars’ offensive line. Anderson, the third overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has quickly established himself as a disruptive force for the Texans. His ability to pressure Trevor Lawrence and force him into hurried decisions will be key to Houston’s defensive game plan. The Jaguars’ offensive line, led by tackles Cam Robinson and Jawaan Taylor, will have to find a way to neutralize Anderson’s impact on the game.
Odds and Predictions
Heading into Week 4 of the 2024 NFL season, the Jacksonville Jaguars are favored to win this matchup against the Houston Texans. However, division games are often unpredictable, and the Texans’ young roster has the potential to surprise. Here’s a breakdown of the current odds and a prediction for how this game will unfold.
Current Odds:
- Point Spread: Jaguars -7.5
- Over/Under: 45.5 points
- Moneyline: Texans +275, Jaguars -350
The Jaguars are favored by more than a touchdown, which reflects their status as the more established team with a playoff-caliber roster. The Texans, while improved from recent years, are still seen as underdogs, especially when playing on the road in Jacksonville.
Prediction:
- Final Score Prediction: Jaguars 30, Texans 20
This game has the potential to be closer than the odds suggest, but ultimately, the Jaguars’ talent and experience should win out. Trevor Lawrence is playing at a high level, and his chemistry with Calvin Ridley, Christian Kirk, and Travis Etienne Jr. will be difficult for the Texans’ defense to handle. Houston’s young defense, while promising, may struggle to contain all of Jacksonville’s offensive weapons.
On the flip side, C.J. Stroud and the Texans’ offense will have moments of success, especially if they can establish the running game with Dameon Pierce. However, Jacksonville’s pass rush, led by Josh Allen, could force Stroud into mistakes, and that could be the difference in the game.
The Jaguars’ ability to generate pressure, combined with their offensive firepower, gives them the edge in this contest. Look for Jacksonville to pull away in the second half and secure a double-digit victory.
Key Storylines to Follow
This matchup between the Texans and Jaguars is filled with intriguing storylines that will have lasting impacts beyond just Week 4. Here are some of the key narratives to watch as the game unfolds:
1. C.J. Stroud’s Development
The Texans are placing a lot of faith in C.J. Stroud to develop into a franchise quarterback, and his progress will be under the spotlight throughout the 2024 season. Stroud showed flashes of his potential during his rookie year, but consistency is the key moving forward. Facing a strong Jaguars defense will be a significant test for Stroud, and how he handles the pressure will provide insight into his future growth. Can he rise to the occasion, or will Jacksonville’s defense expose his inexperience?
2. Trevor Lawrence’s Path to Elite Status
As Trevor Lawrence enters his fourth season, the expectation is that he will solidify his place as one of the league’s top quarterbacks. After leading the Jaguars to the playoffs in 2023, Lawrence has shown he can be a game-changer for Jacksonville. However, if the Jaguars are going to be serious contenders in the AFC, Lawrence will need to take another leap. His performance in games like this, where the Jaguars are clear favorites, will be telling. Can he maintain his composure and continue to deliver at a high level, or will the Texans’ defense find ways to slow him down?
3. The Texans’ Defensive Rebuild
The Texans made major investments in their defense during the 2023 offseason, including drafting Will Anderson Jr. with the third overall pick. Anderson is already proving to be a key piece of Houston’s defense, and the hope is that he will become one of the most dominant pass rushers in the league. Additionally, players like Derek Stingley Jr. and Jalen Pitre are expected to be foundational pieces in the secondary. This game against the Jaguars will be a major test for Houston’s defense, as they face one of the most talented offenses in the league. How they respond will provide a glimpse into their potential.
4. Doug Pederson’s Coaching Impact
Doug Pederson has been a transformative presence for the Jaguars, bringing stability and leadership to a franchise that had struggled for years. Pederson’s offensive system has unlocked Trevor Lawrence’s potential, and the Jaguars are now considered a legitimate contender in the AFC. Pederson’s ability to game plan for divisional opponents like the Texans will be crucial in Jacksonville’s pursuit of another playoff berth. His matchup against DeMeco Ryans, the Texans’ first-year head coach, will be an interesting tactical battle to watch.
5. AFC South Division Race
This game could have significant implications for the AFC South standings. The Jaguars are widely regarded as the favorites to win the division, but the Texans are an up-and-coming team that could surprise some people. A win for Jacksonville would solidify their position at the top of the division, while a victory for Houston could signal that the Texans are ahead of schedule in their rebuild and ready to compete in the AFC South.
Final Thoughts
The Week 4 matchup between the Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars has all the makings of an exciting AFC South showdown. With two young, talented quarterbacks in C.J. Stroud and Trevor Lawrence leading the way, both teams have plenty of playmakers on offense and intriguing pieces on defense.
For the Texans, this game will be another step in their rebuilding process, as they look to see continued development from their young core, including Stroud and Will Anderson Jr.. While they are still underdogs in this matchup, Houston has the potential to surprise if they can establish the run and limit mistakes.
For the Jaguars, this game is an opportunity to assert their dominance in the AFC South. Trevor Lawrence is on the cusp of becoming one of the league’s elite quarterbacks, and Jacksonville’s offense is loaded with talent at every position. If the Jaguars can play to their potential, they should be able to handle the Texans and continue their push toward the playoffs.
Fans won’t want to miss a minute of the action, whether they’re tuning in on CBS or streaming the game live on FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, or one of the other available platforms. With so much talent on both sides of the ball and significant implications for the AFC South standings, this Week 4 matchup promises to be a must-watch event.
