Expert prediction
Houston Texans vs Baltimore Ravens Odds, and Picks (Jan 20)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Texans clobbered the Browns in the Wild Card round, winning 45-14.
- Baltimore was on a first-round bye last week, preparing to host Houston.
- These two teams last faced off in Week 1, in a game that the Ravens won 25-9.
The NFL playoffs are heating up! Let’s preview the upcoming Texans vs Ravens Divisional Round matchup. Houston continues to exceed expectations this season, and will aim for a huge road upset over Baltimore.
How to Watch
- ESPN/ABC
Preview
Houston surged past the Browns on Saturday, picking up their first postseason win since 2019. They dominated on both sides of the ball, continuing to show their incredible improvement from last season. C.J. Stroud was sensational, completing 16 of 21 passes for 274 yards, and 3 TDs. He had a near-perfect 157.2 passer rating against Cleveland’s top-ranked defense. Baltimore will provide another difficult task.
The Ravens had the week off to rest up after finishing with the #1 seed in the AFC. They’ll face the Texans in this matchup, in a rematch of their Week 1 home opener. Baltimore won that opening matchup 25-9, but will face a young Texans offense led by C.J. Stroud that has improved by leaps and bounds since then. They’ll need Lamar Jackson to keep up his stellar play, and the defense to learn from Cleveland’s mistakes.
Prediction
The AFC playoffs continue to feature some excellent matchups between some of the very best QBs in the league. After dominating the Browns at home, Stroud will face his first NFL playoff road game. It will be a great challenge to leave Baltimore with a win, and the Ravens defense will likely cause trouble for Stroud. That being said, it’s just as likely that Stroud will give the Ravens defense fits. I’m taking the Texans here.
NFL Picks:
- Texans 27, Ravens 24 ()
NFL
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