Raiders show signs of life, but still lose to Texans in 9th straight loss

Adam Hill, Las Vegas Review-Journal on Dec 21, 2025

Published in Football

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HOUSTON — The Las Vegas Raiders played their best game in some time but still lost their ninth straight, falling to the Houston Texans 23-21 Sunday at NRG Stadium.

By losing, the Raiders (2-13) remained in contention for a top two pick in the 2026 NFL draft. The New York Giants lost to the Minnesota Vikings Sunday and also are 2-13. The Tennessee Titans defeated the Kansas City Chiefs to improve to 3-12.

The Raiders will host the Giants next Sunday at Allegiant Stadium, with the No. 1 pick possibly on the line.

Running back Ashton Jeanty provided some life to the Raiders’ offense. He scored two long touchdowns, the first on a 60-yard pass from quarterback Geno Smith and the second on a 51-yard run.

Jeanty finished with 128 yards rushing on 24 carries, the second 100-yard game of the rookie’s career.

Smith overcame a terrible throw in the first quarter that was intercepted and returned for a touchdown to throw two touchdown passes.

Ka’imi Fairbairn was the Texans’ best offense, kicking field goals of 55, 50 and 49 yards.

The Texans (10-5) scored their first touchdown when Derek Stingley Jr. intercepted an ill-advised Smith pass on the Raiders’ second possession and raced 31 yards to give Houston a 7-0 lead.

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