Houston Texans vs Cleveland Browns Prediction: Texans offense will run riot again

The Cleveland Browns and Houston Texans are set to go head-to-head this Sunday in the NFL Wild Card Round at NRG Stadium. Anticipated to be a tense wild card opener, both teams are eager for a favorable outcome. Let's examine the teams, analyze the betting matchup, and offer a prediction.

CJ Stroud appears to be a rising star and securing a win in this game would further enhance his rookie season, possibly putting him in contention for MVP honors in the future. The Houston Texans enter this matchup with a 10-7 overall record and a 9-8 record against the spread. In their recent game against the Indianapolis Colts, the Texans led at halftime and held on for a 23-19 victory. Stroud had an impressive outing, completing 20 of 26 passes for 264 yards and two touchdowns. Devin Singletary contributed with 63 yards and a touchdown on the ground, while rookie Nico Collins had a standout performance, catching nine passes for 915 yards and a touchdown.

Despite their recent success, the Texans have struggled in certain aspects. They have lost each of their last five games at NRG Stadium when playing with a rest advantage and failed to cover the spread in those matches. Additionally, the Texans have lost the first half in each of their last five January home games against AFC opponents. In terms of postseason play, four of the Texans' last five games at NRG Stadium have gone UNDER the total points line. It's evident that while the Texans have shown promise, there are some historical trends and challenges they need to overcome in this matchup.

When Deshaun Watson was sidelined for the season, the outlook for the Cleveland Browns making the playoffs seemed uncertain. However, Joe Flacco stepped in and has showcased elite quarterback skills. In the recent matchup against the Houston Texans three games ago, Flacco had an impressive performance, completing 27 of 42 passes for 368 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. The issue of interceptions needs to be addressed for this game. Throughout the season, Flacco has thrown for 1,616 yards, 13 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. Jerome Ford has been a key player in the backfield, amassing 813 rushing yards and four touchdowns.

However, the Browns might face a setback with Myles Garrett dealing with a shoulder injury, and his availability for the game is questionable. If Garrett is unable to play, it could be a significant loss for the team. Notably, the Cleveland Browns head into this match with a strong record, having won each of their last nine games as favorites against AFC South opponents. Additionally, they have covered the spread in each of their last six games as favorites.

The Houston Texans, playing at home, should not be considered the underdogs in this game. In Joe Flacco's last start against the Texans, he threw two interceptions, suggesting that turnovers may once again pose a problem in this matchup. On the other hand, Stroud has proven to be a formidable force for the Houston Texans, and he is expected to have no difficulty putting up points against the Browns' defense. The Texans' offense is poised to be the decisive factor, ultimately getting the job done. While taking the points with them is an option, the recommended play is to go with the Houston Texans on the money line.