HOUSTON, TX — The Houston Texans reinforced their status as the **NFL’s number one defense** on Thursday Night Football (TNF), securing a hard-fought **23-19 victory** over the high-octane Buffalo Bills. This highly anticipated Week 12 matchup was a classic battle between an elite offense—the Bills, led by reigning MVP Josh Allen—and the league’s stingiest defense.
The Texans’ unit, which entered the game allowing the fewest points (16.4) and yards (258) per game, delivered a smothering performance that crippled the Bills’ potent attack and showcased why they deserve the title of the best defense in the NFL.
“We definitely got the best defense in the league,” stated Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair after the game. “You just got to put it on tape every day.”
⭐️ Prime-Time Performance: Sacks and Game-Sealing Turnovers
The victory was powered by a relentless pass rush and game-changing turnovers:
- **Sack Record Tied:** The Texans defense sacked Josh Allen a career-high **eight times**, matching a single-game franchise record. The duo of **Will Anderson Jr.** and **Danielle Hunter** combined for **4.5 sacks**.
- **Calen Bullock’s Career Night:** Safety **Calen Bullock** recorded **two interceptions** and a **forced fumble**, sealing the victory on a dramatic fourth-down interception with 24 seconds left.
Bullock’s performance cemented him as a defensive playmaker, moving his season total up to nine interceptions since 2024, one of the best totals in the league.
📈 Playoff Hopes Surge for Houston
The hard-fought win improves the Texans’ record to **6-5** and significantly boosts their postseason chances. According to updated analytics, the Texans’ probability of reaching the playoffs has surged to **49%**, placing them firmly in the AFC Wild Card conversation.
The focus now shifts to the critical Week 13 matchup after the mini-bye: a divisional clash against the AFC South-leading **Indianapolis Colts (8-2)**. This game will be pivotal in determining whether Houston can make a serious run at stealing the AFC South division crown.
“We have that mindset, that we are the best every time we step out there on the field,” Bullock told ESPN.
