NFL Thursday Night Football: Texans Vs. Panthers

Rookie quarterback Davis Mills is about to make his first career start for the Texans after entering last Sunday's game against the Browns, to replace Tyrod Taylor. Mills went 8-of-18 for 102 yards, with a touchdown and an interception in the loss.

There will be plenty to watch when the Carolina Panthers bring their 2-0 record into primetime and look to make it a 3-0 start to the season.

There are four matchups to really pay attention to as the Panthers look to take out the Texans. 

DEs Brian Burns and Haason Reddick vs. OTs Laremy Tunsil and Tytus Howard

As mentioned, the Texans will be starting Mills at QB and it could be a very harsh welcome to the NFL. 

The Panthers' defense is coming in hot, leading the league in sacks (10) and pressures (32) after the first two weeks of play. Their two best pass rushers have been the major factor in this early success.

CB Donte Jackson vs. WR Brandin Cooks

Mills' primary target on Sunday was wideout Brandin Cooks. Of the rookies 18 attempts, 10 went to the way of the eighth-year veteran.

Panthers corner Donte Jackson will likely see most of the action against Cooks in what should be a potentially exciting matchup of speed vs. speed. Cooks’ legs have served him well so far, as he’s already gone for 210 yards and a score on 14 catches.

RB Christian McCaffrey vs. Whoever

Over the first two weeks, McCaffrey has amassed 59 touches for a total of 324 scrimmage yards. He is by far the toughest guy to defend and he should be amazing to watch as always. 

NFL Odds

The Panthers are serious favorites in this game and bet365 Sports has them listed to win at 1.23. The Texans will have a tough time tonight and they are at 4.25 for the win. 

The odds in this article at the bookmaker mentioned above were accurate at the time of writing on September 22 at 20:30 GMT.