Jacksonville Jaguars (0-3) vs. Houston Texans (2-1)
As the NFL enters Week 4, the Jacksonville Jaguars hit the road to NRG Stadium to compete against the Houston Texans, a game both teams would like to win from the outset and will desperately fight to control. With the Jaguars having failed to win a single game in week three, 0-3, they are plainly in need of a victory and looking to change their current outlook while the team from Texas seeks to build on their two wins and one loss. The odds for this game will be available on Sunday, hence, good for live betting without missing the opportunity for every sports fan.
The Jaguars’ offensive unit is gaining momentum, mostly in the running department. Travis Etienne Jr. is one of the standout performers having rushed for 164 yards with two touchdowns in three games at a yards per rush of 4.6. He might prove to be vital in punching through the Texans’ defenses. On the other hand, Brian Thomas Jr., the tight end, managed to catch 189 yards and scored a touchdown, being rather useful for the team. His average of 17.2 yards per reception speaks volumes about the number of big plays he can make, something that Jacksonville will sorely need when facing the Texans’ defense.
On the other hand, the Texans have a more diverse approach to their offense. While the rushing game appears less effective, there are positive signs as Cam Akers has managed to be productive under constraints, generating 53 yards in two outings. However, their aerial attack is more concerning and headlined by Nico Collins, who, in just three games, has registered 338 receiving yards and one touchdown, averaging 18.8 yards per reception. Overall, Collins’ deep threat is something that the Jaguars’ secondary needs to be wary of, and will be a player to look out for this Sunday.
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Houston Texans Game Info
When: | Sunday, September 29, 2024, at 1:00 PM ET |
Where: | NRG Stadium |
TV: | CBS |
Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Trevor Lawrence QB vs. C.J. Stroud QB
Trevor Lawrence, the quarterback for Jacksonville Jaguars, has seen these past weeks of season as not his best ones. He has only clocked 560 passing yards with two touchdowns and a passer rating of 75.1 in three games. From this practical outlook, the hope that he is able to restore order in the ranks after Jacksonville’s collapse remains a focal point for the team.
At the same time, C.J. Stroud plays the position of the fourth quarterback of the Houston Texans and reveals only the best of his abilities from the very first weeks of the season. He can be proud of his 93.4 passer rating and 709 throwing yards, reflecting efficiency. With a completion percentage of 67.7 and limited sack losses, Stroud is likely to become a threat to Trevor Lawrence’s Jags.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Houston Texans -190, Total Odds: 47
The current betting lines favor the Texans with a -3.5 point spread and a -190 moneyline, reflecting their stronger start to the season and home advantage. The total set at 47 points with trends suggesting an under, as both teams have shown a propensity for lower-scoring games against each other historically.
Jacksonville Jaguars Betting Trends
Jacksonville’s betting trends do not favor them, having gone 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games, and 1-8 SU in the same stretch. This trend highlights their struggles on the field and in covering spreads, making them a risky bet against a team with a solid home record like Houston.
Houston Texans Betting Trends
Houston has been robust, especially at home, with an 8-2 SU record in their last 10 home games. Their consistent performance against AFC opponents, standing at 4-1 SU in recent matchups, further strengthens their position as the favorite in this clash.
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Houston Texans 9/29/24 Betting Picks
Considering the data and trends, the Texans appear to be in a stronger position to win this matchup. Their effective passing game and solid home performance make them the safer bet. Jacksonville, while underdogs, will need a significant turnaround to upset the Texans on their turf. For those looking into free NFL picks, considering Houston to cover the spread and the total going under seems a prudent choice.
Ultimately, betting on the Texans to win and cover the spread seems logical. Prop bets could be interesting for individual performances, particularly Nico Collins, to exceed his receiving yards, or Trevor Lawrence, to improve the game. However, cautious betting on the over/under, leaning towards the under, is advisable, given the defensive trends of both teams.