After a challenging start to the season, the Houston Texans have positioned themselves for a playoff run, boasting an impressive turnaround with an 11-5 record. Following an 0-3 beginning, they’re now eyeing a potential AFC South title as they face the Indianapolis Colts, who have seen their season take a turn for the worse due to injuries.
The Texans can capture the AFC South championship outright with a win this Sunday, coupled with a Jaguars loss to the Titans. Should this happen, Houston would potentially enter the playoffs as the No. 3 seed, allowing them to host either the Bills or the Chargers in the wild card round. Currently, if they remain as the No. 5 seed, they would take on the AFC North champion, either the Ravens or the Steelers.
In contrast, the Colts, with an 8-8 record, have been eliminated from playoff contention after a promising 8-2 start, faltering with six straight losses. The Colts’ recent performance marks them as the first team in three decades to have so steep a decline after a strong start.
The matchup is slated for Sunday, January 4, at NRG Stadium in Houston at 1 p.m. ET, with coverage on CBS and streaming available on Paramount+. The Texans are favored by 10.5 points with an over/under of 38.5, according to DraftKings.
For the Colts, a significant shift will occur at quarterback, as they will hand the reins to rookie Riley Leonard, who steps in after 44-year-old Philip Rivers’ three-game stint. Leonard, who previously showcased his skills at Notre Dame, will need to enhance the Colts’ offensive play facing one of the league’s toughest defensive squads. Jonathan Taylor, the Colts’ running back, remains a key player, trailing by just 47 yards in the race for the rushing title. However, he faces a tough challenge against a Texans defense that is currently ranked fourth in the NFL against the run.
Despite their struggles, the Colts rank among the best in red zone efficiency, standing third in offensive red zone success and ninth defensively. Taylor’s impressive tally of 18 rushing touchdowns leads the league and has been crucial in maintaining the Colts’ effectiveness within this area.
On the other hand, Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud has emerged as a consistent performer, achieving a career-high completion rate and showcasing a strong touchdown-to-interception ratio. His development has been supported by a dynamic group of emerging skill players, including rookies that complement the formidable Nico Collins.
The Texans’ defense will be pivotal in their playoff aspirations, allowing an average of just 16.5 points per game and featuring a strong pass rush led by Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr., who collectively have garnered 26 sacks. Their secondary is also formidable, boasting multiple players with key interception stats this season.
As the Texans prepare to solidify their playoff position, this matchup against the Colts promises to be a significant battleground for both teams, highlighting the resilience of Houston and the Colts’ quest for redemption as they look to end their season on a high note.