SportsLine expert Eric Cohen has released his exact score predictions for all 16 games of the 2026 NFL opening week, providing analytical breakdowns and betting logic for the entire slate, according to reporting by Ross Kelly for SportsLine. Bettors analyzing spreads, money lines, totals, and player props ahead of the kickoff can utilize these projections to evaluate upcoming matchups.
Evaluating the Houston Texans vs. Buffalo Bills Opening Matchup
Cohen projects the Houston Texans to narrowly defeat the Buffalo Bills at home, forecasting a final score of Texans 23, Bills 20. According to Cohen’s analysis published on SportsLine, Houston has won four of the last five meetings against Josh Allen and Buffalo, with each victory decided by a single possession.
“The Texans have the best defense in the NFL and should stifle Allen, while on offense, Houston QB C.J. Stroud needs to make amends for a dreadful finish to last season,” Cohen stated, as reported by SportsLine. Historical trends support the narrow margin, as each of Houston’s three victories over Buffalo since 2020 resulted in 22 or 23 points scored by the Texans, while Buffalo posted 19 or 20 points in each of those games.
Tracking Expert Performance Records and Betting Trends
Handicapping authority and host Eric Cohen enters the 2026 season with a documented track record in straight-up NFL picks. According to SportsLine data, Cohen has maintained a 378-191-1 record (66%) on straight-up NFL picks since the 2024-25 season, delivering a profitable stretch for bettors.
Beyond the Houston-Buffalo matchup, Cohen’s full slate evaluation highlights a road team projected to win by double-digits, creating value opportunities on alternate betting lines for the opening week of the 2026 NFL season.
Did You Know?
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Eric Cohen?
Eric Cohen is a SportsLine expert and host who provides analytical game previews, score predictions, and betting logic for NFL matchups.
What is Cohen’s prediction for the Texans vs. Bills Week 1 game?
According to SportsLine, Cohen predicts the Texans will defeat the Bills 23-20, siding with Houston at plus-money (+1.5).
How accurate has Eric Cohen’s recent NFL picking record been?
SportsLine reports that Cohen holds a 378-191-1 record (66%) on straight-up NFL picks since the 2024-25 season.
Explore more expert betting guides, computer model simulations, and subscriber picks by visiting SportsLine today.
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