Texans vs Vikings the Football returns to the United States on August 9, 2025, when the Minnesota Vikings host the Houston Texans. Bank Stadium for the start of their 2025 preseason. Even though there are no regular-season stakes in this game, fans are eager to watch rookie debuts, battles for positions, and changes to the depth chart—especially the Vikings’ rookie quarterback J.J.’s first NFL game. McCarthy.
The game tonight will begin at 7 p.m.between Texans vs Vikings CT marks the beginning of both teams’ three-game preseason schedule. The majority of well-known players will, as expected, be watching from the stands, but for many aspiring young players, this is an essential first audition.
J.J. McCarthy Takes Center Stage
In Minnesota, quarterback J.J., the team’s first-round pick, will be the focus of all attention. McCarthy, who is anticipated to debut in the NFL. Following Kirk Cousins’ departure, the Michigan native was selected 11th overall in the NFL Draft in April, heralding a new era as quarterback.
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Fans and coaches alike will be keeping an eye on McCarthy’s decision-making, poise in the pocket, and connection with young receivers like Jalen Nailor and rookie tight end Bryce Carter, even though it is not expected that he will play more than a few series.
In a press conference earlier this week, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell stated, “We just want to see J.J. comfortable.” We are not using every tactic in the book against him. This is about trying him out and seeing how he reacts to the situation.
Texans Set to Rest Starters, Focus on Depth
The Texans, on the other hand, are being cautious. C.J., the legendary quarterback, Stroud, who had a fantastic rookie season that included winning the playoffs, will not play. DeMeco Ryans, the head coach, has confirmed that the majority of key starters, including newcomer Joe Mixon and wide receiver Nico Collins, will miss the opener.
Instead, the Texans are likely to give rookie quarterback J.T. and backup quarterback Davis Mills more time on the field. Daniels rotates in younger offensive linemen and receivers.
Ryans stated, “We want to protect our core guys.” However, this does not negate the significance of this game. For the guys, this is a real chance to show that they belong on this roster come Week 1.
Henry To’oTo’o, a second-year linebacker, and Tyrus Brown, a rookie defensive end, are two players to keep an eye on. Both of them stood out during training camp.
Injury Watch and Inactives
Star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, running back Aaron Jones, safety Harrison Smith, and defensive end Jonathan Greenard are among the players who will not play tonight, the Vikings announced. The team is putting rest and evaluating its depth players ahead of any serious injuries.
Both linebacker Christian Harris and cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. will not play for Houston because of safety concerns.
A Lopsided Rivalry
The Texans are still looking for their first victory over the Vikings, even though it is only the preseason. Minnesota has prevailed in all five regular-season encounters between the two teams. On September 22, 2024, the Vikings defeated the Texans 34–7 in one of the most dominant performances of the season. This was their last meeting.
The game tonight doesn’t offer much in the way of retaliation or rivalry, but it does give Houston a chance to test its young players against a team that has historically troubled them.
The game of Texans vs Vikings will begin at 7:00 p.m. CT, and the game will be televised locally on KTRK (ABC 13) in Houston and KMSP (FOX 9) in Minnesota. It can also be streamed by fans via NFL+.
Reactions, player ratings, and additional coverage from both sides of the field will be available following the game.