Texans vs Chiefs Expert Predictions for AFC Divisional Round Battle in NFL Playoffs

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The Divisional Round of the 2024-25 NFL Playoffs kicks off with a Saturday full of No. 1 seeds.

First, the No. 4 seeded Houston Texans take on the No. 1 seeded Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC.

Then, the No. 6 seeded Washington Commanders take on the No. 1 seed Detroit Lions in the NFC.

The staff at Newsweek Sports has predictions for both games. Click here for predictions on Commanders vs. Lions. Continue reading for predictions on Texans vs. Chiefs.

Read more: Commanders vs Lions Expert Predictions for NFC Divisional Round Clash in NFL Playoffs

Noah Camras: Many of the Chiefs' starters haven't played since Week 17, meaning they may need to knock off some rust early in this one. However, the Chiefs will figure things out quickly, and go on a dominant run that breaks this game open. For more on my prediction, click here.

Read more: NFL Divisional Round Predictions for All Four Games

Prediction: Chiefs 30, Texans 17

Sean Treppedi: The Texans essentially snoozed their way to a division title after going 5-1 in a soft schedule open to the season. Sure, they beat the Buffalo Bills in that frame, but it's been a rocky road ever since. Houston showed a pulse in its domination over the Los Angeles Chargers in the Wild Card Round, but a well-rested Chiefs roster with key players back from injury at Arrowhead — and manned by Patrick Mahomes — should be too much to overcome.

Prediction: Chiefs 27, Texans 10

Valentina Martinez: The Texans put on quite the show in the Wild Card Round, but Houston can't compete with the Chiefs. Experience trumps everything in the playoffs, and the Chiefs have plenty of it.

Prediction: Chiefs 24, Texans 18

Matt Levine: I may be going out on a limb here but the Chiefs looked vulnerable all season long. Houston kept things close with the Chiefs earlier in the season, with quarterback C.J. Stroud committing two turnovers. If he can limit the turnovers, the Texans can pull the upset. Of course, Patrick Mahomes won't go down easily, but I think Houston has what it takes to shock the NFL world.

Prediction: Texans 24, Chiefs 21

Jeremy Hanna: Many fans were surprised that the Texans not only came out on top of the Chargers but absolutely destroyed them. While it would be great to see Houston repeat the same feat this upcoming weekend, it seems even more unlikely. The Chiefs are coming into the playoffs well-rested, so expect them to hit the Texans with everything they've got.

Prediction: Chiefs 30, Texans 21