Bills end six-game skid in Houston with 36-31 victory
Buffalo defeated the Houston Texans 36-31 in the season opener, snapping a six-game losing streak in the city after adjusting their offensive line protection scheme.
Buffalo overcame a six-game losing streak in Houston by beating the Texans 36-31 on Sunday, opening the 2026 season on the road. The win came after the Bills altered their protection strategy, using varied looks and additional blockers to keep quarterback Josh Allen upright, a contrast to the previous season when Allen was sacked eight times in a loss at the venue.
The revised scheme involved double-teaming edge rusher Danielle Hunter, employing tight ends and wide receivers to chip pass rushers, and ultimately allowed Allen the time to deliver a 34-yard touchdown pass to Joshua Palmer in the final minute. Palmer’s catch secured the game-winning score.
"Teams need to think players, not plays," color analyst Ross Tucker said during the broadcast.
Head coach Joe Brady, offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael Jr., and offensive line coach Pat Meyer were credited with the strategic adjustments that helped Buffalo control the Texans’ pass rush and clinch the victory.