The NFL regular season is officially in the books and the NFL Playoffs kick off this Saturday in Houston. Of all the times the Texans have played in the Wild Card round, it has always been in the 4:30 p.m. slot time on Saturday. Once again the Texans are catching points at home for a second consecutive year. Will the success of Harbaugh and Herbert continue? Below are the Chargers at Texans Preview and Predictions!
The Houston Texans come into this game a bit banged up. First, offensive lineman Shaq Mason is dealing with a knee injury and is yet to practice this week. Additionally, Denico Autry and John Metchie III were limited participants in practice on Wednesday. The good news is second-year linebacker Will Anderson Jr. was a full participant at practice for the Texans.
On the other side, the Chargers come into this game with questions about the wide receiver position. Both receivers Quentin Johnston and Joshua Palmer did not practice as of Wednesday. Additionally, running backs J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards were limited for the Chargers. All eyes and ears will be on the status of the wide receivers for the Chargers.
Chargers at Texans Preview and Predictions
Best Bets
Alright, I understand the Chargers surprised many this season, especially with all the turnover on the roster and coaching. And yes, the Texans are labeled as “frauds” and struggled down the stretch late in the season. However, do the Chargers warrant being a three-point favorite in this game?
Under DeMeco Ryans, the Texans are 12-6 SU at NRG Stadium and 8-9-1 ATS in those spots. The Texans were in the same situation last year, at home, catching points in the Wild Card game against the Browns and the defense rose to the occasion. Additionally, the Texans offense in the short time they were out there in the Week 18 game against the Titans looked good led by Stroud and Collins.
Even though the Chargers were 5-1 SU and ATS as away favorites this season, they didn’t play the toughest competition. The Chargers played the Patriots, Browns, Panthers, Raiders, and Broncos. You can make the argument this will be the toughest opponent the Chargers have faced on the road.
Best Bet: Texans +3
Player Prop Best Bet
Joe Mixon Under 71.5 Rushing Yards
I believe this game is going to be on the arm and shoulder of C.J. Stroud for the Texans. The Chargers rush defense this season allowed only five running backs to go over this projection. Additionally, the Chargers allowed only 4.3 yards per carry in road games this season. I do expect Mixon to be part of the passing game but do expect him to struggle in this matchup versus the Chargers front.
