Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen delivered a game‑winning drive on Sunday, connecting with Joshua Palmer for a 34‑yard touchdown pass with 1:36 remaining. The play lifted the Bills to a 36‑31 victory over the Houston Texans in a thrilling season opener at Reliant Stadium.
Key moments
Allen finished with 334 passing yards, two passing touchdowns and two rushing scores. He also scrambled for a 21‑yard touchdown early in the second quarter, giving Buffalo an early lead. The Texans answered with quarterback C.J. Stroud throwing for 274 yards and two touchdowns, but two costly fumbles hurt Houston’s chances.
Houston briefly led 31‑30 after a 7‑yard touchdown reception by former Detroit running back David Montgomery. Montgomery, who was acquired in the offseason, also scored a 1‑yard rushing touchdown in the first half. However, a pass‑interference call on Texans’ defender Kamari Lassiter set up the Bills at the 1‑yard line, where Allen’s dive run put Buffalo ahead 34‑31.
Late in the game, Texans defensive end Greg Rousseau recorded his second strip‑sack of the day, forcing a fumble that Buffalo safety Terrel Bernard recovered, sealing the win.
Supporting performances
Buffalo’s new wide receiver DJ Moore debuted with five catches for 100 yards and a touchdown after being traded from Chicago. Fellow receiver Dalton Kincaid posted five receptions for 130 yards.
Houston’s special teams contributed a 58‑yard field goal by Kaʻimi Fairbairn, and Buffalo’s kicker Tyler Bass responded with a 33‑yard field goal to keep the game within striking distance.
Coaching milestones
Buffalo head coach Joe Brady earned his first win after being promoted from offensive coordinator following Sean McDermott’s dismissal. The victory gives the Bills momentum heading into their next home game against Detroit at their brand‑new stadium.
Injuries and outlook
Houston linebacker Jake Hummel exited in the second half with an abdominal injury. Both teams will look to address defensive lapses as the season progresses.
Next up, the Bills host the Detroit Lions on Thursday night, while the Texans travel to face Cincinnati on Sunday.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
