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So here we are, watching the Houston Texans notch yet another thrilling Thursday night victory, this time over the Buffalo Bills—a nail-biter ending at 23-19 that’s got fans buzzing and skeptics mumbling. But here’s the kicker: despite their sizzling run—three wins straight, six from eight—the question lingers, almost like a stubborn ref’s whistle: can Houston really crack the playoff code this season? Analyst Joe Fortenbaugh certainly isn’t buying it, and honestly, his skepticism stings just a bit when you see the Texans’ defense flexing like that. Is this defense truly the iron curtain it’s cracked up to be, or is it merely paper-thin armor hiding deeper wounds on offense and under center? With a daunting road schedule looming and wild-card contenders breathing down their necks, Houston’s playoff hopes are hanging by a thread—so buckle up, because this rollercoaster ride is far from over.

(Photo by Thomas B. Shea/Getty Images)

The Houston Texans defeated the Buffalo Bills 23-19 on Thursday Night Football, bolstering their playoff chances heading into the second half of the season. Josh Allen orchestrated a late fourth-quarter drive for Buffalo, but Houston’s defense ultimately held firm.

The victory marks their third consecutive win and sixth triumph in their last eight games, yet skepticism persists about their postseason viability. Analyst Joe Fortenbaugh remains unconvinced despite Houston’s recent momentum.

During an appearance on ESPN’s Get Up, he outlined his reasoning for why he believes the Texans will miss the playoffs entirely.

“Thursday night game in the 2nd half of the season. It’s the toughest spot to turn around, especially when you’re on the road. Buffalo was just in a war on Sunday with Tampa. Now, four days later, you gotta go to Houston and face this defense?” Fortenbaugh said. “Houston? Good. I don’t see him making the playoffs,”

.@JoeFortenbaugh doesn't think the Texans will make it to the NFL playoffs @danorlovsky7 was shocked pic.twitter.com/56ildeQKuc

— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) November 21, 2025

Fortenbaugh drew comparisons to Cincinnati’s Week 7 Thursday night win with Joe Flacco earlier this season, a struggling team capitalizing on favorable circumstances. He views Houston’s situation similarly, arguing that its home dominance masks deeper concerns.

The Texans carry a 2-3 road record with victories only against Tennessee and Baltimore. Their upcoming schedule intensifies matters, with consecutive away contests against Indianapolis and Kansas City looming.

While acknowledging Houston’s defensive strength, Fortenbaugh pointed to offensive line issues and inconsistent quarterback play as limiting factors. He contended the Texans’ playoff positioning remains precarious regardless of Thursday’s impressive performance at home.

Houston improved to 6-5 following the Bills game, and their playoff probability surged from 29 percent to 49 percent according to NFL.com. The dramatic shift reflects the significance of their recent winning stretch.

However, their path forward remains challenging. The Texans must overtake teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Los Angeles Chargers, or the Buffalo Bills for a wild-card berth, or maintain their current form long enough to pressure the AFC South leader, the Indianapolis Colts.

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