Indianapolis Colts vs Houston Texans NFL Picks 9/17/2023 – The NFL season has officially kicked off, and one of the most intriguing matchups slated for Sunday at NRG Stadium will see the Indianapolis Colts face the Houston Texans for their inaugural win of 2017. Both teams suffered defeat in Week 1, so we’ll break down this rookie quarterback showdown between both squads while providing analysis on the strengths and weaknesses of both sides as well as making predictions on this exciting contest.
The NFL betting predictions today have all the details of this game, including the latest betting trends and betting odds.
Indianapolis Colts vs Houston Texans NFL Picks Game Info
When: | Monday, September 17, 2023 |
Time: | 1:00 PM ET |
Where: | NRG Stadium |
Shane Steichen vs DeMeco Ryans
The Indianapolis Colts opened their home opener with an agonizing 31-21 loss against the Jacksonville Jaguars, featuring Anthony Richardson – their 2023 first-round selection – as their starting quarterback. Richardson showed promise by passing for 223 yards and one touchdown; however, their offensive line struggled mightily and allowed four sacks in his debut performance; underscoring how critical strong offensive lines are when developing young quarterbacks such as Richardson; something which had already been an issue going into this season for the Colts.
Michael Pittman led the Colts with eight receptions for 97 yards during their season debut. There were positive signs, but overall performance could use some tweaking as they look to address offensive line issues in 2019.
On the other side of the field, the Houston Texans started off their 2023 season with a 25-9 loss against the Baltimore Ravens. Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud – second overall selection in the 2023 NFL draft – made his NFL debut during this matchup and showed impressive stats: 242 passing yards and zero interceptions were recorded by him.
Ka’imi Fairbairn played an integral part in Houston’s win, scoring all nine of their points on perfect field goals from 3-for-3 kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn. Wide receiver Nico Collins made an impressionful first NFL debut with six receptions for 80 yards. Similar to Indianapolis, Houston experienced offensive line issues which caused quarterback Stroud to be sacked five times during his NFL debut–providing him with a difficult introduction to professional football life.
NFL Betting Odds: Houston Texans -120 Over 40
As the Colts and Texans gear up to face each other in Week 2, one of the most intriguing storylines will be a clash between two rookie quarterbacks–Anthony Richardson of the Colts and C.J. Stroud of the Texans–who both made positive debuts this season. Both can show their talents again here.
Anthony Richardson, the Colts’ first-round draft pick, displayed impressive skills in his NFL debut as he completed passes for 223 yards and found the end zone. Backed by talented Michael Pittman as his supporting cast, Richardson could experience a breakout year; however, to do so will require them to address offensive line concerns to provide him with proper protection.
C.J. Stroud, the Texans’ second overall pick, also made an impressive first start, passing for 242 yards without an interception in his debut game against the Baltimore Ravens’ defense. Stroud displayed grace and composure under pressure, showing poise and composure even with wide receiver Nico Collins as an option as the target; providing Stroud with enough tools to lead his offense effectively. Like Colts they must improve their offensive line to protect rookie quarterback CJ Stroud.
Indianapolis Colts Betting Trends
Indianapolis are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games.
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Indianapolis’ last 7 games.
Indianapolis are 0-8 SU in their last 8 games.
Indianapolis are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games against Houston.
Colts are 7-2-1 SU in their last 10 games against Houston.
Indianapolis are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games on the road.
Houston Texans Betting Trends
Houston are 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Houston’s last 10 games.
Houston is 2-11 SU in their last 13 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Houston’s last 7 games against Indianapolis.
Houston are 0-7 SU in their last 7 games at home.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Houston’s last 5 games when playing at home against Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Colts vs Houston Texans NFL Picks 9/17/2023 Betting Pick
In this contest, the Colts may hold a slight edge. With talented receiver Michael Pittman and promising Anthony Richardson under center, they possess enough pieces to exploit any defensive weaknesses on display by Houston. But ultimately, this battle may come down to which team can more successfully manage its offensive line issues as protecting rookie quarterbacks is of utmost importance.
Expect an evenly contested contest with both Richardson and Stroud striving to make their mark in the NFL. Though both sides showed promise during Week 1, the Colts may possess stronger supporting casts which may help tilt the scales in their favor.
Get ready for an epic showdown between two rookie quarterbacks and their respective teams: Colts will look to rebound after suffering their first loss of the year while Texans seek their inaugural triumph of 2018. NFL fans won’t want to miss this competitive contest between young talents on both sides as they battle for victory. Stay tuned for further NFL expert analysis and predictions as the NFL season unfolds. The odds from USA legal betting sites will keep you engaged in this matchup.