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Lions at Texans: Preview, Predictions, and More

By Randy Gurzi

Oct 24, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) looks on from the sidelines in the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 27-9. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 24, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) looks on from the sidelines in the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos won 27-9. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /
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Detroit Lions vs. Houston Texans

The Detroit Lions have reeled off three wins in a row after looking dead in the water early in the year. Each and every game they have been in this season has been a one score game, they have just figured out how to get some of the bounces to go their way lately. They’re hoping that continues against the Houston Texans in Week 8 at NRG Stadium.

Must Read: NFL Power Rankings: Week 8

Houston, on the other hand, is catching no breaks. They have been abysmal on offense, especially on the road like the whole world saw on Monday Night Football this past week. Can they get it going finally, or will Detroit stay hot?

Here are the keys to victory for each team.

Detroit Keys To Victory

Find a run game: Although Detroit is riding a three game winning streak, they are still incredibly one-dimensional. Houston has struggled to stop the run, so getting something going here would be highly beneficial to them.

Stay close to Will Fuller: The one thing that can get Houston back on track effortlessly would be a deep bomb to rookie receiver Will Fuller. Detroit struggles on defense, but keeping him from getting a big play will be crucial. You can live with the short throws, not the deep ones.

Don’t keep it close: Detroit has been all about the nail biting so far. Don’t let Houston hang around, they’re actually pretty good in the fourth quarter, so put them away if possible.

Houston Keys to Victory

Protect the ball: Last game they finally had the ball moving, but running back Alfred Blue coughed up a fumble and the game was blown wide open. With the score 14-9, Houston could have taken the lead or narrowed it to two points at the worst. Instead Denver extended their lead to 21-9 and the game was pretty much done. Houston cannot turn the ball over and expect to win against good teams.

Play some defense: It was a tale of two halves. Early on Houston’s defense looked sharp, but by game’s end they couldn’t tackle anyone. They need to push through on defense and have someone step up regardless of who is out due to injury.

Stick with the run: Houston will have a decent drive when running the ball and then quickly come out and throw three straight passes before punting it away. Coach Bill O’Brien loves to pass, but he has to run the ball to help Brock Osweiler out.

Odds

Point Spread: Houston -1
Moneyline: Detroit +114, Houston -135
Over/Under: 45.5

Next: 6 Teams that Need a Win in Week 8

Prediction

Houston hasn’t lost at home, which is good for them in this game. It’s also bad because they only have three home games left after this. They need this win before going into the second half of the year and find a way to pull one out close.

Pick: Detroit Lions: 24, Houston Texans: 27

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