Houston Texans (9-7) vs. Indianapolis Colts (9-7)
Houston Texans vs. Indianapolis Colts 1/6/24 – On Saturday night in an NFL Week 18 matchup of equal teams (both 9-7), Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts will face off at Lucas Oil Stadium at 8:15 PM ET at an important playoff-eligibility game that should be broadcasted live by ABC. With its evenly matched records and high stakes stakes, this game provides ample opportunities for point spread free picks from NFL Point Spread free picks.
The Texans have showcased an effective rushing and receiving game this season. Devin Singletary, their primary running back, has amassed 835 rushing yards with three touchdowns over 16 games at 52.2 yards per game; Nico Collins, their star wide receiver has amassed an amazing 1102 receiving yards with seven touchdowns over 14 games for an amazing average per game of 78.7; his ability to create big plays has been key to their offense.
Indiana Colts have also displayed strength both rushing and receiving. Running back Zack Moss has been instrumental in moving the chains for them with 764 rushing yards and five touchdowns over 13 games at an average per game average of 58.8, while Michael Pittman Jr has become a standout receiver, amassing 1108 receiving yards with four touchdowns over 15 games at an average per game average of 73.9; his reliable hands and route running skills make him an integral component of their passing attack.
Houston Texans vs. Indianapolis Colts 1/6/24 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, January 6, 2024 at 8:15 PM ET |
| Where: | Lucas Oil Stadium |
| TV: | ABC |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
C.J. Stroud QB vs. Gardner Minshew QB
C.J. Stroud has made an outstanding first season as starting quarterback of the Texans, showcasing precision passing and solid decision-making skills. Through 14 games, Stroud has completed 63.2 percent of his passes for 3844 yards at an average completion rate of 274.6 yards per contest – good for an 8.1 average yards per pass attempt average with five interceptions as proof. His mobility within the pocket has steadily improved as evidenced by only 36 sacks taken that total 313 lost yards; overall his 99 passer rating and 21:5 touchdown-to-interception ratio show his effectiveness at moving chains and scoring points.
Colts’ quarterback Gardner Minshew has battled turnover issues this season, recording 9 interceptions over 16 games played. While he displays sporadic flashes of playmaking ability, Minshew’s decision-making and ball security remain inconsistent. On the year, he has completed 62.7% of his throws for a pedestrian 6.8 yards per attempt, while taking 33 sacks for 179 lost yards. Minshew’s tendency to force throws into coverage has hindered drives and scoring opportunities. He will need to make quick, accurate reads to neutralize an aggressive Texans pass rush that has compiled 36 sacks as a unit.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Houston Texans -125, Total Odds: 47.5
The betting odds slightly favor the Texans with a -125 moneyline, indicating a closely contested game. The total set at 47.5 points suggests expectations of a moderately high-scoring affair.
Houston Texans Betting Trends
Houston’s recent games have mostly gone UNDER the total, with 5 of their last 7 games falling short of the over/under line. Their 6-3 SU record in the last 9 games showcases their ability to secure wins, but their 3-8 ATS record against the Colts highlights some struggles in covering the spread in this matchup.
Indianapolis Colts Betting Trends
The Colts have been strong at home this season, going 6-2 SU and 5-3 ATS over their last 8 Lucas Oil Stadium matchups. They also boast a 16-4 SU record over their previous 20 home games against the Texans. Furthermore, with Moss igniting the ground game, Indianapolis has seen the total go over in 5 of its last 6 overall.
Houston Texans vs. Indianapolis Colts 1/6/24 Betting Picks
Analyzing the trends and performances, this game promises to be a tight contest. The Texans, with their slightly better offensive firepower, might have a narrow edge. However, the Colts’ home-field advantage and historical dominance in this matchup could play a significant role.
In betting terms, considering the close nature of this game, taking the Colts with the points could be a wise choice. Prop bets on individual player performances like Stroud’s passing yards or Pittman Jr.’s receptions might offer good value. The over/under is tricky, but leaning towards the OVER could be a premium pick and parlay, given the offensive capabilities of both teams.
Free Pick and Prediction: Houston Texans 27, Indianapolis Colts 24