Texans at Packers: Preview, Predictions, Odds

Houston Texans vs. Green Bay Packers

The Houston Texans (6-5) suffered another loss on Sunday and they now find their lead in the AFC South to be just one-half of a game. With the Tennessee Titans nipping at their heels they’re nearing must-win status in Week 13. As things are close to unravelling, the Texans go on the road to face the Green Bay Packers (5-6) at Lambeau Field.

For those Packers, they’re looking good after a convincing Monday Night Football win against the Philadelphia Eagles. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is still as dangerous as ever and they’re ready to gain more ground in the NFC playoff picture.

However, neither of these two teams have been the picture of consistency. Moreover, you could argue they’ve both fallen well-short of expectations. That said, someone has to win on Sunday and that victor could set up a strong stretch run.

Here are the keys to victory for each team.

Houston Keys To Victory

Get Will Fuller Involved: When Houston looked like a potentially good team early this season they were completing deep passes to rookie receiver Will Fuller. Injuries have slowed him down, but he showed some promise last week and needs the ball to help this stagnant offense.

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Protect the Football: Texans quarterback Brock Osweiler has been a turnover machine this season. He has 13 interceptions in 11 games and threw three last week. He has only had two games all season where he threw zero interceptions. They need a game like that against this high powered Green Bay offense.

Make Rodgers Look Hurt: Aaron Rodgers says his hamstring is improving, but the fact is there’s a problem there. The Texans need to exploit the sore leg of the Packers franchise player if they hope to keep this game within striking distance.

Green Bay Keys To Victory

Run the Football: Green Bay’s offensive plan has evolved into “let Rodgers fling it around.” They can’t keep putting it all on him. A running game is a must not just in this game, but moving forward as well.

Create Turnovers: This one may be easy to do because Osweiler loves to throw it to whoever is open regardless of the color of their hat. Turnovers will be there for the taking, the Pack just has to be ready to take advantage.

Limit the Texans Running Backs: What will help create turnovers will be forcing the Texans to be one dimensional. Their offensive line is awful and their coach loves to pass. Limit the running backs early and Houston will start throwing the ball like a bunch of lunatics.

Odds

Point Spread: Green Bay -6.5
Moneyline: Houston +235, Green Bay – 275
Over/Under: 45.5

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Prediction

Green Bay is a much, much better offensive team than the Texans are. Without defensive end J.J. Watt (who is on the IR after back surgery) the Texans aren’t much better than Green Bay on defense. This one feels like it will be another ugly road loss for the offensively challenged Texans.

Pick: Houston Texans: 16, Green Bay Packers: 34

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