The Houston Texans (9-7) and Indianapolis Colts (9-7) will compete in an intense battle for a playoff spot coming up on Sunday, January 6 at 8:15 PM ET. ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook offers the Texans as slight favorites for success with a moneyline at -120.
When: January 6, 2024 at 8:15 PM ET
Where: Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana
Watch: ESPN|ABC|ESPN+
Houston Texans Preview
The Texans have gone 3-2 in their last five matchups and need to extend their winning streak. Their most recent success was a 26-3 performance over the Tennessee Titans, where they had a 20-3 lead going into the half.
The AFC South is an intense race, as three teams are vying for a playoff spot. Currently, the Jacksonville Jaguars, Colts, and Texans all have the same record. In other words, this is do or die for both the Texans and Colts.
The Texans are averaging 22.1 points per game and rank 14th in the league. On defense, they are allowing 20.9 points per game and rank 13th in the league for that effort. At this rate, they have a minor margin for victory.
C.J. Stroud (21 TD, 5 INT) was great in his return to the lineup after missing two games due to a concussion protocol. Now, the Texans are arguably at their best at a time when they need to be. Stroud has 3,844 total yards, a pass completion rate of 63.2, and a QBR of 54.4, ranking him the 17th-best quarterback in the league.
Indianapolis Colts Preview
The Colts have also gone 3-2 over their last five games and have a recent win under their belt heading into this one. Their previous successful encounter was a 23-20 performance over the Las Vegas Raiders, where they had less yards, less possessions of the ball, and less first downs and were still able to win.
They are 4-4 at home this season, which does not really offer them an edge for this matchup. However, their last two battles at home have been wins.
The Colts are averaging 23.6 points per game and rank 10th in the league. Their defense will likely get them in trouble, as they allow opposing teams to average 24.5 points each game and rank 27th overall. This slightly negative ratio does not help their chances.
Gardner Minshew (15 TD, 9 INT) has accumulated 3,164 total yards and a pass completion rate at 62.7 percent. He also has a QBR of 60.3 and ranks 11th in the league among other starting quarterbacks.
Betting Odds
ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook provides the best NFL betting opportunities. Currently, the Texans are favored to win despite being on the road. Market insights are indicating they have a 48.0 percent probability of winning.
Indianapolis Colts: -102
Spread: +1.5 (-112)
Houston Texans: -120
Spread: -1.5 (-109)
Total Points: Over 47.5 (-109), Under 47.5 (-112)
