The Houston Texans have a short week ahead of them as they head to the East Coast to play the New York Jets this Thursday, Halloween night.

The Jets are coming off a disappointing loss to the lowly Patriots, while the Texans came away with a costly win, as Stefon Diggs injured his knee will miss the rest of the season.

With Nico Collins also still out, the Texans may have to rely on Joe Mixon and the running game this week. But the Jets are fully aware Houston has struggled to protect CJ Stroud, so Mixon won't be sneaking up on their talented defense.

Even though the Jets lost to the Patriots, they were able to hold running back Rhamondre Stevenson to 48 yards on 20 carries. Stevenson was able to score 2 TDs against the Jets, however.

Things are getting heated

New York is getting crushed in the media this week for slipping to 2-6 against the Pats, so the Texans should have their hands full with an angry team looking to make a statement on national television. One factor to keep in mind is that the Jets knocked Patriots QB Drake Maye out with a concussion.

Let's not forget, they also knocked Stroud out with a concussion as a rookie last year. So this is a physical defense that shouldn't be taken lightly.

X-factors

Jets kicker Greg Zuerlein has struggled recently, and that continued on Sunday as he missed two more kicks. Houston should definitely have the advantage in the kicking game with Ka'imi Fairbairn.

The Texans defense looked terrific against the Colts this week, but they haven't been as dominant on the road. QB Anthony Richardson missed some throws downfield that could have gone for touchdowns with better QB play.

If Aaron Rodgers is able to connect on those opportunities, it could spell trouble for the Texans. And when it comes to playmakers, the Jets are loaded with Davante Adams, Garrett Wilson, and Breece Hall.

What does Vegas think?

The Jets are favored by a point at home, and the total is set at 42.

Don't miss the video above as we examine some of the most important matchups to watch this week!

_______________

Fans of Houston sports and Houston food can now score tickets to The Tailgate, CultureMap's all-out party devoted to everyone’s favorite way to get in the gameday spirit. The event, presented by Verizon, goes down from 6-9 pm November 11 at 8th Wonder. Find out more about it here.