The Houston Texans opened their 2024 NFL season with a 36-31 loss to the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, with two costly turnovers by quarterback CJ Stroud sealing the outcome. Stroud, who declined a $50 million contract extension before the season, completed 26 of 38 passes for 274 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 15 yards. However, his two strip-sack fumbles—one on the opening drive and another in the fourth quarter—set up Buffalo’s first points and ultimately cost Houston the game.
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen led his team to victory, passing for 334 yards and two touchdowns while adding two rushing touchdowns. Allen’s performance included all four of Buffalo’s offensive touchdowns, either through passing or rushing. The Bills’ win marked new head coach Joe Brady’s first victory in his NFL debut. Allen’s postgame remarks emphasized the team’s resilience, stating, “It feels good to start the season off right.”
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans acknowledged Stroud’s overall strong play but highlighted the turnovers as decisive. “CJ was very much in control the entire game,” Ryans said. “Proud of the way he played today... Unfortunately we lost the football there two times, don’t want those plays at all.” Ryans also noted that Houston’s offense outscored Buffalo by a significant margin, suggesting defensive shortcomings were the primary issue.
Stroud’s first fumble occurred on the Texans’ opening drive, leading to a Buffalo field goal. His second turnover came in the fourth quarter with Houston trailing 36-31 and 16 seconds remaining. Stroud was strip-sacked on a 3rd-and-Goal from the Buffalo 18-yard line, capping a game where he had otherwise managed the offense effectively. The Texans’ defense, which had previously limited Allen to 196 passing yards per game in five prior matchups, struggled to contain him this time.
Allen’s performance drew praise for exorcising lingering postseason frustrations, including a playoff loss to the Denver Broncos that had overshadowed his offseason. His 334 passing yards and four total touchdowns underscored his ability to perform against a strong opponent. The Bills’ victory also sent a message about their Super Bowl contender status, as Houston had been widely regarded as a playoff threat entering the season.
The loss leaves the Texans with questions about their ability to capitalize on strong offensive performances in high-pressure situations. Stroud’s turnovers, while atypical for his otherwise composed debut, raised concerns about his durability under pressure. The Texans will look to rebound in their next game as they aim to build toward a deep playoff run.