Houston Texans (3-1 Preseason) vs. Indianapolis Colts (2-1 Preseason)
The NFL season kicks off with a compelling matchup as the Houston Texans, showing a strong preseason record of 3-1, face the Indianapolis Colts, who enter the regular season at 2-1. This Week 1 clash is set for Sunday, September 8, 2024, at Lucas Oil Stadium, promising a thrilling start to the season. Both teams are eager to translate their preseason form into meaningful success, making this game a crucial first test. For those looking for the latest NFL picks, this game offers an intriguing look at two teams with high aspirations and the potential to surprise many this season.
So far in the preseason, there have been some promising signs from the Texans’ offense, especially in terms of running and receiving. Emerging as a formidable running back, Cam Akers rushed for a total of 112 yards in a bid to pass for four games with a means of four and seven yards. Quicks might be valuable for tumbling any stubborn defense of the Colts’ defensive fortress. In the air, accomplished wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson has done well with 12 catches for 114 yards. Hutchinson has averaged 9.5 in his receptions, which shows that he has the potential to be one of the explosive players against the secondary of the Colts.
On the flip side, the Colts are also not short of offensive arsenal. In the preseason, quarterback Jason Bean was rather impressive, completing 78.9 % of all passes attempted, and he hopes to continue this efficiency when the regular games start. Laquon Treadwell, Bean’s top receiver, has made 10 receptions, making 121 yards, and is becoming increasingly incorporated in the Colt’s passing game. Tyler Goodson, with 2rush TDs and 107 yards on the ground, led the rushing attack, and the Texan’s defense will have to be breached in order to open more balance in the offense.
Houston Texans vs. Indianapolis Colts Game Info
| When: | Sunday, September 8, 2024, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Lucas Oil Stadium |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Tim Boyle QB vs. Jason Bean QB
Tim Boyle of the Houston Texans exhibits a steady and effective style in the quarterback position. He ended the preseason with an 87 passer rating which included two touchdowns and most impressively, no interceptions, demonstrating his leadership abilities without being reckless. Such a composed approach would be important since he will have to control the game and the ball.
Jason Bean of the Indianapolis Colts offers a different style of play from the quarterback position. However, up to that point, Bean managed to post a passer rating averaging 105.5 over the preseason and a completion percentage of 78.9. His aggressive nature in pushing the ball down the field will be integral in stretching the defense of the Texans and setting up some big opportunities.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Houston Texans -124, Total Odds: 47.5
The betting odds slightly favor the Texans as -124 on the moneyline, with a narrow -1.5 point spread, indicating a closely contested game is anticipated. The total over/under is set at 47.5, reflecting expectations of a moderately high-scoring affair, likely influenced by both teams’ effective passing games during the preseason.
Houston Texans Betting Trends
The Texans have shown resilience on the road, going 8-4 against the spread in their last 12 away games. However, their recent history against the Colts, 5-10 ATS in the last 15 meetings, suggests some vulnerability when facing this specific opponent. Their overall strong performance late in the season and this preseason suggests they’re coming into this matchup with momentum.
Indianapolis Colts Betting Trends
Conversely, the Colts have struggled against the spread, going 1-4 in their last five games overall. Yet, their record of 6-3 straight up in their last nine games shows they can pull off wins. The total going OVER in 5 of their last 6 home games indicates their tendency to be involved in higher-scoring matches at Lucas Oil Stadium, a trend that might continue against the Texans.
Houston Texans vs. Indianapolis Colts 9/8/24 Betting Picks
Given the teams’ preseason performances and historical matchups, this game is poised to be a close one. The Texans’ slightly better preseason record and road ATS trends might give them the edge in a tight contest. However, the Colts’ home scoring trends and Jason Bean’s explosive preseason suggest they won’t go down easily.
In terms of betting, the smarter money might be on the Texans to cover the spread, given their solid preseason form and robust road performance. Consider the over on 47.5, as both teams have demonstrated the capability to score. Prop bets on quarterbacks’ passing yards and key receivers to score might also offer value. This prediction leans towards a Texans victory in a closely contested match. Expect an exciting game with plenty of action from both sides, making it a great pick for those looking at the best online casino and sportsbook options.
