In the second of two games on Saturday, the Houston Texans are at the Indianapolis Colts in the National Football league. Both teams come into the game with 9-7 records. The winner of this game will head to the postseason, and the loser will head home. The winner also could be the winner of the AFC South, pending the Jaguars game on Sunday.
Houston is coming off a big win at home over the Titans last week. Houston snapped a two game losing streak with the win. For the Colts, they also backed up a loss with a win in Week 17. The Colts beat the Raiders 23-20 at home. The Indianapolis Colts are -1 at home in this game. The total is 47.5.
Rookie Quarterback in Big Game
Last week marked the return of C.J. Stroud, bringing a big change to Houston’s game. The rookie quarterback has been a big time force on offense, throwing over 3,800 passing yards and 21 touchdowns with just 5 interceptions this season.
In comparison, other Houston quarterbacks combined for 4 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. Nico Collins, with over 1,000 yards and 7 touchdowns, has been Stroud’s primary target. Tank Dell, contributing 7 touchdowns, has been sidelined for the past five games due to a season-ending injury. Dalton Schultz, the leading tight end, has scored five touchdown receptions.
Devin Singletary leads the Texans’ run game, accumulating 835 yards and 3 touchdowns, taking over from Dameon Pierce. Pearce, with 145 carries and just over 400 yards, now plays a supporting role. Stroud has also contributed 147 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns.
Rookie Head Coach in Big Game
Colts’ head coach Shane Steichen, in his first year, has led the team to a position one win away from the postseason. The Colts seek to sweep the season series after winning the Week 2 game 31-20, despite Stroud’s impressive 384 passing yards.
Gardner Minshew has taken over the signal caller role, throwing for nearly 3,200 yards and 15 touchdowns after Anthony Richardson played four games earlier in the season. Michael Pittman Jr. stands out as the top threat for the Colts, with 1,108 yards and 4 touchdowns.
The Colts’ run game, powered by Jonathan Taylor and Zack Moss, has been solid, contributing 11 of the team’s 18 rushing touchdowns. Recently, Trey Sermon rushed for 160 yards in the last few games.
Colts Win at Home and Advance
Take the Colts at home in this game. The Colts want to keep the ball on the ground and keep the clock moving. Jonathan Taylor has been rested more than other running backs this season, and the Colts are hoping this is the game where he shows he is rested more than others. We like the Colts to win this game at home, and head to the postseason.
The season was fun for Houston, but it comes to an end here. Take the Colts -1 over the Texans on Saturday in Week 18 action.
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