Houston Texans (7-6) vs. Tennessee Titans (5-8)
Houston Texans vs. Tennessee Titans 12/17/23 – As NFL season intensifies, this Week 15 encounter between the Houston Texans and Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium should not be overlooked. Both teams come into this encounter with 7-6 records; it could have major playoff ramifications; CBS will broadcast it and present an interesting set of variables to consider for best free NFL picks betting purposes.
The Houston Texans have displayed remarkable balance in their offensive strategy, both rushing and receiving. Running back Devin Singletary has been a reliable force, accumulating 590 yards and 3 touchdowns from 13 games at an average 4.2 yards per rush average. Nico Collins has also proven his worth, amassing 1004 receiving yards with 6 touchdowns while averaging 16.7 yards per reception over 12 games; these dual threat capabilities of the Texans may present formidable obstacles for Titans’ defensive strategies to contend with.
Conversely, the Tennessee Titans also possess similar strengths. Derrick Henry is an impressive running back who has amassed 841 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns through 12 games while averaging 4.3 yards per attempt; DeAndre Hopkins stands out with 774 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns; his experience and skill make him a crucial asset in Tennessee’s offensive lineup. How these teams’ offensive units matchup with opposing defenses will be an essential aspect to keep an eye on.
Houston Texans vs. Tennessee Titans 12/17/23 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 17, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Nissan Stadium |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
C.J. Stroud QB vs. Will Levis QB
C.J. Stroud has put together an extremely impressive debut campaign for Houston. Through 13 starts, he has completed over 62.4% of his passes for well over 3,631 yards, 20 touchdowns and just 5 interceptions. C.J. Stroud has shown exceptional accuracy at all levels of the field and quickly built chemistry with his top wide receiver target. He has also displayed quality mobility, using his legs to extend plays when the pocket collapses. Perhaps most impressively, C.J. Stroud plays with great poise and decision making for a first year player. He will certainly be looking to continue this success against a vulnerable Tennessee pass defense that is allowing among the most passing yards per game this season. If C.J. Stroud can stretch the field with big plays, it will open up running lanes.
On the other side, Will Levis has struggled mightily in his first season replacing the former starter. While he has flashed arm strength at times, Will Levis has been inconsistent in his accuracy and decision making. In just 6 starts, he has already thrown 2 interceptions and taken 19 sacks. His completion percentage is well below league average, as receivers have struggled to get on the same page. Will Levis can move the chains with his legs at times, but overall has failed to ignite a largely one-dimensional offense. If the veteran top receiver cannot get open downfield, points may be very hard to come by against an aggressive pass rush. Will Levis must avoid the big mistake and lean on his workhorse running back to have a chance in this game. But the advantage clearly lies with rising star C.J. Stroud for Houston.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Houston Texans +105, Total Odds: 37.5
The betting odds suggest a close game, with the Texans as slight underdogs. The over/under total of 37.5 indicates expectations of a relatively low-scoring affair. Bettors might consider the Texans’ recent form and the Titans’ struggles in this season when making their picks.
Houston Texans Betting Trends
The Texans have been solid against the spread recently, covering in 3 of their last 5 contests. Houston also seems to thrive in the underdog role when playing Tennessee, covering in 4 of the last 5 meetings between these division rivals. The total has gone UNDER in 7 of the Texans’ last 10 overall.
Tennessee Titans Betting Trends
Tennessee has struggled to cover spreads all season long, going just 3-6 ATS over their last 9 games. The total has gone UNDER in a whopping 12 of the Titans’ last 17 games. When playing at home against Houston specifically, 6 of the last 7 meetings have gone below the total.
Houston Texans vs. Tennessee Titans 12/17/23 Betting Picks
Given the data and trends, this game appears to be a tight contest. The Texans have shown better form recently, but the Titans have the home-field advantage. The key will be how each team’s defense handles the opposing offense, particularly in the rushing and receiving game.
The Texans seem to have a slight edge, particularly in their passing game. The Titans will need to leverage their home advantage and hope for a strong performance from Henry and Hopkins. For prop bets, look at individual player performances, especially the quarterbacks and primary receivers. The over/under might lean towards the under, given both teams’ recent trends.
Premium tips today would suggest a cautious approach, considering the close nature of the game and the contrasting strengths of each team.
Free Pick and Prediction: Houston Texans 19, Tennessee Titans 16