Expert prediction
NFL Week 18: Houston Texans vs Indianapolis Colts Odds, and Picks (Jan 6)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Texans beat the Titans 3-26 last time out.
- The Colts defeated the Raiders 20-23 in week 17.
- These teams last met in week 2, with the Colts winning 31-20.
The 9-7 Houston Texans take on the 9-7 Indianapolis Colts in this key AFC South divisional matchup. This is a straight shootout for a playoff berth, and the winner also has a chance of topping the division should Jacksonville lose to Tennessee on Sunday.
How To Watch
- ABC
Game Preview
The Texans have injury concerns over wide receivers Noah Brown (back) and Robert Woods (Hip) heading into Saturday’s matchup against the Colts. Should one, or both, fail to suit up then we could see expanded roles for John Metchie and Xavier Hutchinson behind primary receiver Nico Collins. Another player who could see a boost from their absence is TE Dalton Shultz, and the 6’5″ 27-year-old needs 6 receptions in this game to activate a bonus in his contract. Another player who could see their earnings rocket in this game is running back Devin Singletary, he needs 73+ yards to trigger his own bonus clause.
The Colts head into this crucial matchup against the Texans on the back of a good win over a resurgent Las Vegas Raiders in week 17. In Jonathan Taylor and Michael Pittman they have players capable of winning football games no matter the situation and that will be key in a must win game here. The Colts have one of the worst records in the league for points allowed per game though, and their defense will surely be tested by a Texans’ team not afraid to go toe-to-toe with anyone.
Prediction
This game could be an old fashioned shootout, with both teams needing a win to head into the post-season. The Colts have been my dark horses from week 1 of the season, but I think every neutral will be behind the Texans here with the way they play football. Houston to win, but the Colts may just have the head coach of the year on their staff.
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