GAME BALLS

JOHNATHAN JOSEPH CORNERBACK

The 34-year-old, 13-year veteran played a terrific game, making five unassisted tackles, including one on third down, and breaking up two passes. But his most important play of the season, indeed, one of the most important plays of his eight seasons with the Texans came when they needed it the most. With the score tied at 13, Joseph intercepted Nathan Peterman and returned it 28 yards for the winning touchdown. He stepped in front of receiver Kelvin Benjamin, caught the ball and took off down the right side for one of the biggest plays of his career.

BRENNAN SCARLETT LINEBACKER

He made two big plays on special teams that set up two scoring drives in the first half. At the end of the Texans’ first series, Scarlett recovered Ray-Ray McLeod’s muffed punt at the Buffalo 29. Five plays later, the Texans scored their only offensive touchdown. In the second quarter, linebacker Tyrell Adams blocked Corey Bojorquez’s punt. Scarlett picked up the ball and ran 14 yards to the Bills’ 21, setting up a field goal for a 10-0 lead.

KAREEM JACKSON SAFETY

He may be having the best season of his nine-year career in the last year of his contract. His interception on Buffalo’s last series made sure the Texans would win their third consecutive game. Jackson continued to make plays all over the field. He had three unassisted tackles, including one for loss, and knocked down three passes. With 35 seconds left and the Bills desperate for a touchdown that would tie the score, he intercepted a pass over the middle that was intended for running back LeSean McCoy.