Texans vs Chiefs Picks and Prediction – 12/21/2024

The Houston Texans travel to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium to take on the Kansas City Chiefs on December 21, 2024, in a key AFC showdown. Kickoff is set for 1:00 PM ET, with national coverage on NBC. This Week 16 matchup features two playoff-contending teams aiming to solidify their positions in the AFC standings. Get in on the action with our free NFL picks.

The Chiefs (13-1) are riding a dominant season, led by MVP candidate Patrick Mahomes, who has thrown for 3,189 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. Kansas City’s offense is complemented by Travis Kelce, who has 682 receiving yards and two touchdowns, and a strong ground game led by Kareem Hunt. Defensively, Kansas City has done well defensively, with 6 interceptions and 9 forced fumbles. Patrick Mahomes went down with a leg injury in their last game, and left the game. Kansas City would be in deep trouble if Mahomes cannot play, or is limited.

The Texans (9-5) have followed their success from last season with another promising year, lead by quarterback C.J. Stroud. Stroud. Stroud has passed for 3,2117 yards with 15 touchdowns against nine interceptions, forming a strong connection with Nico Collins, who leads the team with 832 receiving yards and four touchdowns. The Texans also rely heavily on running back Joe Mixon, who has tallied 887 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns this season. Houston has dealt with injuries and suspensions, which may prevent them from winning it all, but they continue to be one of the most dangerous teams in the NFL.

The Kansas City Chiefs have benefited from some fortunate bounces all season. The Chiefs are not as good as their record suggests, and Mahomes' injury could have a large effect on their production. When Kansas City met a formidable opponent in Buffalo, they were beaten. Houston is a good team and will take this victory on the road. Prediction: Houston wins 24-21.