Indianapolis Colts (0-1) vs. Houston Texans (0-1)
As NFL Week 2 kicks off, Indianapolis Colts (0-1) take on Houston Texans (0-1), promising an exhilarating matchup between fans and bettors. As we progress through the season, NFL picks today become ever more crucial to betting communities everywhere. Both teams look eager to secure their first victory after last week’s setbacks, so let’s see who will emerge victorious.
Deon Jackson had a forgettable performance for the Colts last time out, garnering only 14 rushing yards out of 13 attempts – barely any productive output. Furthermore, his production was further debilitated by an early fumble, leading to possession loss and momentum shift; with no potent running attack to supplement passing game operations, it left opponents more easy predict and counter. Going forward, however, Jackson will play an essential part in diversifying the Colts’ offensive scheme by creating opportunities for play-action passes to help reduce quarterback workload. Wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. was the bright spot in the Colts’ offense. With 8 receptions on 11 targets for 97 yards and one touchdown – accounting for nearly half of their passing yardage – and a 12.1 yards-per-reception average, Pittman proved his ability to make significant gains after the catch, collecting four first downs. His performance also opened up space for other receivers while adding yet another layer of complexity for opposing defenses to handle; his connection with quarterback Anthony Richardson could prove decisive in come matchup against Houston
Dameon Pierce of the Houston Texans put forth an admirable performance in his previous game. Out of 11 rushing attempts, he managed to rack up 38 yards while averaging an admirable 3.5-yard average per carry. Even though his numbers weren’t eye-popping, they were enough to keep the other team’s defense honest, and his contributions helped balance out the Texans’ offensive strategy. He should take note of his ability to break out for longer runs against the Colts, given their defensive struggles in recent weeks. Nico Collins caught six out of 11 targets for 80 receiving yards. Collins proved he can be an effective target for quarterback C.J. Stroud. His 13.3 average yards-per-reception suggests he can make significant gains and move the chains quickly. Collins can stretch the field to open shorter routes and running lanes for running back Lamar Miller and create more offensive options for the Texans. Collins showed this ability in his previous appearance against Indianapolis by recording three first downs – clutch plays that could prove instrumental if there’s a tight game against them.
Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans Game Info
| When: | Sunday, September 17, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | NRG Stadium |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream | NFL Game Pass |
Anthony Richardson QB vs. C.J. Stroud QB
Anthony Richardson of the Colts completed 24 out of 37 passes for 64.96% completion rate, throwing for 223 yards and one touchdown while being sacked four times; his passer rating currently sits at 79 and there’s room for improvement.
On the other hand, C.J. Stroud, the Texans’ quarterback, had similar statistics. He completed 28 of 44 passes for 242 yards but failed to throw a touchdown. Despite not getting sacked as much as Richardson, his passer rating is nearly identical at 78.
Overall, both quarterbacks are relatively evenly matched, but Richardson’s ability to find the end zone could be the differentiator.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Indianapolis Colts -125, Total Odds: 39.5
The betting odds favor the Colts slightly, with a spread of -1.5 and a Moneyline of -125. For the Texans, the spread is +1.5 and the Moneyline is +105. The total points for the game is set at 39.5.
Indianapolis Colts Betting Trends
The Colts have a disappointing 1-6 ATS in their last seven games, and they have also lost their last eight games straight up. However, they perform considerably better against the Texans, with a 7-3 ATS and 7-2-1 SU in their last ten matchups.
Houston Texans Betting Trends
The Texans are 4-2 ATS in their last six games, but have a dismal 2-11 record SU in their last 13 games. When playing against the Colts, the total has gone UNDER in 6 of their last 7 games. This may be crucial information for bettors looking at the total points.
Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans 9/17/23 Betting Picks
Considering the quarterback matchup, key players, and betting trends, the odds seem to slightly favor the Colts. While the Texans have a better ATS record in their last few games, the Colts have historically performed better in this matchup. For those looking to bet on this game, the top online casinos would likely recommend putting your money on the Colts to cover the spread and the total to go UNDER. Remember, in betting, anything can happen, but these are the informed choices based on current data and trends. Happy betting!
Free Pick and Prediction: Indianapolis Colts will win 21-17
