Cleveland Browns (9-5) vs. Houston Texans (8-6)
Cleveland Browns vs. Houston Texans 12/24/23 – The Cleveland Browns, holding a solid 9-5 record, are set to face the Houston Texans, who stand at 8-6, in a pivotal NFL Week 16 showdown. This intriguing matchup is scheduled for Sunday at NRG Stadium, with kickoff at 1:00 PM ET, and will be broadcast on CBS. As the season nears its climax, both teams are looking to cement their playoff ambitions, making this game a treasure trove of NFL game day insights for fans and analysts alike.
The Browns boast an explosive rushing attack led by rookie sensation Jerome Ford. Through 14 games, Ford is averaging 4.1 yards per carry with 718 total rushing yards and 5 touchdowns. His physical running style has ignited Cleveland’s offense, adding balance to complement veteran QB Deshaun Watson and his top receiving target Amari Cooper. The Browns are surging offensively, scoring 30+ points in 4 of their past 5 contests.
Meanwhile in Houston, wideout Nico Collins has broken out with 1004 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns as the Texans’ primary downfield threat. Paired with steady QB C.J. Stroud and RB Devin Singletary’s consistent production, the Texans have found their offensive staples for years to come. Houston has scored 23+ points in its last 3 games, as this young nucleus continues to progress. This AFC showdown will pit strength versus strength, with two ascendant offenses at the height of their powers.
Cleveland Browns vs. Houston Texans Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 24, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | NRG Stadium |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Deshaun Watson QB vs. C.J. Stroud QB
Deshaun Watson has rebounded as a quality starting QB for Cleveland. He has completed 61.4% of passes for 1115 yards, 6 touchdowns and 4 interceptions through 6 starts. While not matching the prolific numbers from earlier in his career yet, Watson is an extremely talented dual threat capable of winning games with his arm or legs at any moment. He figures to thrive even more as he shakes off the remaining rust.
C.J. Stroud has emerged in his second season as the leader of Houston’s promising offense. In 13 starts, he has compiled 3631 passing yards with 20 TDs against just 5 interceptions, plus a stellar 62.4% completion rate. Stroud displays quality accuracy at all levels of the field and has formed an excellent rapport with Collins. This rising star QB will aim to outduel Watson’s playmaking ability in a pivotal late-season matchup.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Houston Texans -140, Total Odds: 43
The betting odds slightly favor the Houston Texans, with a -2.5 point spread and a -140 moneyline. The total odds set at 43 points indicate expectations of a moderately scoring game.
Cleveland Browns Betting Trends
Cleveland boasts a 5-2 SU record over its past 7 games, fueled by the emergence of Ford and Watson’s return. The Browns have been an Over machine as well, with 6 of their last 9 games eclipsing the betting total. While Cleveland has dominated Houston historically, a 1-7 ATS skid over their past 8 meetings suggests bettors should beware taking the more experienced Browns squad.
Houston Texans Betting Trends
Riding a 5-2 SU surge over their past 7 contests, Houston is coming into its own as a formidable threat thanks to the Stroud-Collins tandem lighting up scoreboards. The Texans have rewarded spread bettors too recently, covering in 5 of their past 7 matchups. Their ascent has also coincided with Under totals, with 4 straight Houston games staying below the projected point threshold. Given the Browns’ 6-2 mark above totals though, an exciting shootout could transpire.
Cleveland Browns vs. Houston Texans 12/24/23 Betting Picks
After analyzing the teams’ performances and betting trends, the matchup appears to be closely contested. The Texans, with their slight edge in odds and strong performance at home, seem to have a marginal advantage.
For premium top picks, the Texans could be the better pick, especially considering their recent form and home-field advantage. However, the Browns’ ability to cover the spread and their potential in road games makes them a viable underdog choice. The over/under is a tight call, but leaning towards the under might be prudent, given both teams’ recent trends.
Free Pick and Prediction: Houston Texans 22, Cleveland Browns 19