Time Update: Las Vegas Raiders vs Houston Texans — Kickoff Time Confirmed

 Posted December 17, 2025

The Las Vegas Raiders continue their tough 2025 NFL campaign as they prepare for a big Week 16 road matchup this Sunday, December 21, 2025, against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium

After a difficult season marked by long losing stretches and inconsistent play, the Raiders (2–12) are looking for pride and improvement as they head into this pivotal late‑season test. 

This game presents one of the last realistic opportunities for Las Vegas to salvage some momentum and finish the season on a stronger note.

With injuries and lineup changes impacting offensive continuity, the Raiders know they’ll need discipline, execution, and focus from the opening whistle. 

🔍 Key Matchups & Storylines

Raiders’ Offense vs Texans’ Defense
Quarterback duties for the Raiders have seen changes this season amid injuries to Geno Smith and other starters, and young playmakers like tight end

Brock Bowers have provided some bright spots despite team struggles.

The offense will need clean protection from the line and smart decision‑making to generate sustained drives against a Texans defense that’s been efficient at home. 

The run game must support the passing attack, sustain long drives, and help control clock — especially because turnovers and short drives have plagued Las Vegas this season.

Raiders’ Defense vs Texans’ Offense

Defensively, the Raiders must bring pressure and force uncomfortable situations for Houston’s quarterback. Tackling must be sound, and gap integrity cannot be compromised.

Limiting explosive plays and third‑down conversions will be vital to keeping this game competitive. 

The Texans’ offense will look to take advantage of any hesitation or breakdowns — so discipline and pursuit angles will be key.

⚙️ X‑Factors

• Offensive line protection & minimizing turnovers

  — Avoiding early mistakes can keep the Raiders in the game.

• Balanced offensive attack — Using both run and pass to maintain rhythm and limit Texans’ scoring chances.

• Defensive resistance & pressure on opposing QB

  — If the defense can force quick decisions and stalled drives, the Raiders stay within reach.

• Team mentality & pride late in the season — With playoff hopes long gone, pride and resilience will define this performance. 

📆 Official Game Info

• Date: Sunday, December 21, 2025

• Kickoff Time: 3:25 PM Pacific Time (PT) — local time for the Raiders and Texans.

• Venue: NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas

  — Raiders on the road. 

  

🧨 Prediction

Despite their struggles this year, the Raiders have shown flashes of fight in spurts — and a late‑season performance with fewer mistakes could make this game interesting.

Still, the Texans have been more consistent and will likely control tempo throughout. The Raiders will lean on gutsy play and grit, but may fall just short.

Final Score Prediction:

Texans 27, Raiders 17

Expect a physical game with moments of competitive football, but overall a tough challenge for Las Vegas as they continue building toward 2026.

Carson Schwesinger called a ‘Beast’ as Cleveland rookie nears historic milestone

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“He just turns into a monster,” veteran linebacker Jerome Baker said earlier this week. “Off the field, he listens and kind of just does everything right. On the field, he’s just a different beast.”