Indianapolis Colts fans can’t help but see a little dark humor in this situation. Just a week ago, they were prepared to be a prohibitive underdog on the road against the Houston Texans. The Colts were the forlorn, written-off bunch missing their rising-star quarterback, Andrew Luck, to a season-ending injury.
One non-contact Texans drill later, and the season is over for DeShaun Watson.
Combined with the 2-6 Colts showing signs of life in a loss to Cincinnati last week, the news gives Houston fans the frightening thought that these teams are headed in opposite directions.
The Texan defense just gave up 41 points to what was supposed to have been a stagnant Seattle offense, and their replacement for Watson is not a promising one.
Still, bookies are giving the nod to the wounded Houston Texans at home.
Who: Indianapolis Colts at Houston Texans
When: Sunday, November 5th, 1 PM EST
Where: NRG Stadium, Houston, TX
Lines: Indy (+7) at Houston (-7) / O/U Total: (45)
QB Tom Savage will get the start for the Texans. He’s a traditional passer who could conceivably develop into a solid starter, but he’s not likely to affect much this season. He has to game-manage and not screw things up.
Indianapolis’ best cornerback Rashaan Melvin has been out with a concussion, and the Colts aren’t likely to produce many points. If there’s a chance for Savage to impress the Houston fan base with a good game, this is the time. DeAndre Hopkins and an above-average WR corps are waiting for the ball.
Colts’ starting LT Anthony Castanzo is also hurt and may not be able to play. That should bolster the Houston pass rush at home. Not only is the team unable to move the ball consistently with Jacoby Brissett at the helm, but the injuries this week seem almost designed specifically to help the Texans.
There are Vegas trends that seem to favor Indy. Ignore them. This should be a week for Houston to get emotional with their fans at home and play well enough to win easily.
Savage will be throwing and handing-off to players whose confidence shot up after the success of having Watson taking snaps. The Texans will at least create offense early, and that should be enough to coast and cover.
Take Houston (-7) or (-6.5) at NRG.