Indianapolis Colts at Houston Texans: Predictions, picks and odds for NFL Week 2 game
Two rookie quarterbacks will look to get their first NFL win this week for an AFC South matchup between the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans.
Indianapolis stayed competitive against division favorite Jacksonville Jaguars during its Week 1 loss, with Anthony Richardson showing promise with a touchdown in the air and on the ground. But it was clear the team misses Jonathan Taylor, as the running back group was unable to generate much.
Meanwhile, C.J. Stroud didn't have a bad debut as the new quarterback in Houston, but the Texans offense failed to get in the end zone against a strong Baltimore defense while allowing five sacks.
WANNA BET? How to bet on NFL games in 2023
Texans vs. Colts odds, moneyline, over/under
The Texans are favorites to defeat the Colts, according to the BetMGM NFL odds. Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering NFL betting promos in 2023.
Spread: Texans (-1.5)
Moneyline: Texans (-120); Colts (+100)
Over/under: 39.5
Not interested in this game? Our guide to the NFL betting odds, picks and spreads has you covered with Thursday Night Football odds, Sunday Night Football odds and/or Monday Night Football odds.
If you’re new to sports betting, don’t worry. We have tips for beginners on how to place bet online. And USA TODAY readers can claim exclusive promos and bonus codes with the online sportsbooks and sports betting sites.
NFL BETTING GUIDE: How to read NFL betting odds, picks, spreads and more
NFL Week 2 odds, predictions and picks
Vikings vs. Eagles | Packers vs. Falcons | Raiders vs. Bills | Ravens vs. Bengals | Seahawks vs. Lions | Colts vs. Texans | Chiefs vs. Jaguars | Bears vs. Buccaneers | Chargers vs. Titans | Giants vs. Cardinals | 49ers vs. Rams | Jets vs. Cowboys | Commanders vs. Broncos | Dolphins vs. Patriots | Saints vs. Panthers | Browns vs. Steelers
Lorenzo Reyes: Colts 19, Texans 15
Anthony Richardson showed he can be the bulk of Indianapolis’ offense, but he will certainly need some more help − especially in the rushing game − for the Colts to be successful. Houston’s production under their rookie, C.J. Stroud, was average if unspectacular, with just one play exceeding 20 yards Week 1 against the Ravens. With it being close to a toss up, I’m going to ride the offense that looks more capable of putting points on the board.
Tyler Dragon: Colts 17, Texans 13
Expect a low-scoring game featuring two offenses trying to figure themselves out with rookie quarterbacks. The Colts are a little more equipped to win this home game behind a solid and experienced defensive front seven.
Victoria Hernandez: Colts 17, Texans 10
Anthony Richardson was impressive in his NFL debut, a loss against the Jacksonville Jaguars. He will be playing with more confidence than fellow rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, who failed to get the offense to the end zone during his first game.
Jordan Mendoza: Colts 22, Texans 16
Both teams will struggle this season amid breaking in rookie quarterbacks, but the Colts were far more impressive against a legit playoff contender last week than the Texans. Points will be hard to come by, but Anthony Richardson has another promising performance to pick up his first NFL win.
BEST BETS: Here are the best NFL betting apps in 2023
NFL salaries: These are the highest paid NFL players
Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. Terms apply, see operator site for Terms and Conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, OH), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). Must be 21 or older to gamble. Sports betting and gambling are not legal in all locations. Be sure to comply with laws applicable where you reside.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Indianapolis Colts at Houston Texans: Game predictions, picks, odds
