Indianapolis, Indiana – The Indianapolis Colts have an opportunity to return to the playoffs for the first time in three years as they prepare to face the Houston Texans in a crucial Week 18 NFL game at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Colts, who reached the Wild Card Round in the 2020 season, have experienced ups and downs in recent years, with records of 9-8 in 2021 and 4-12-1 last season. This year, they currently hold a 9-7 record and a victory against the Texans, who are also 9-7, would secure a spot in the NFL playoff bracket for the Colts. Additionally, if the Colts win and the Jacksonville Jaguars (with a record of 9-7) lose on Sunday, the Colts would secure their first AFC South title since 2014.
The game is scheduled to kick off at 8:15 p.m. ET. The Texans are favored by two points in the latest odds, with the over/under for total points scored set at 47.5. Before making any predictions or picks for the Colts vs. Texans matchup, it is advisable to consult the NFL betting advice from the SportsLine Projection Model. This model, which has proven successful over the years, simulates every NFL game 10,000 times and has generated significant profits for $100 players with its top-rated NFL picks. In fact, the model has achieved an impressive 181-129 record on top-rated NFL picks since the 2017 season and a 35-21 roll since Week 7 of last season. The model’s accuracy also reflects in its performance on NFLPickWatch, where it has consistently ranked in the top 10 for straight-up NFL picks, outperforming more than 94% of CBS Sports Football Pick’em players on multiple occasions.
As the game between the Texans and the Colts approaches, the SportsLine Projection Model has provided its picks and predictions. These exclusive insights can only be found at SportsLine. Some notable NFL odds and betting lines for the matchup include the Texans as two-point favorites, an over/under of 47.5 points, and the money line showing the Texans at -129 and the Colts at +108.
Despite the Texans’ underdog status, they possess a strong defense that delivered an outstanding performance in their recent victory over the Tennessee Titans. Allowing only three points, the Texans demonstrated marked improvement since the 2019 season by limiting their opponents to just 187 total yards, the fewest since the 2018 season. Additionally, wide receiver Nico Collins has had a breakout season, emerging as a key offensive weapon for the Texans with 71 receptions and 1,102 receiving yards.
On the other side of the ball, the Colts have exhibited improved defense in the second half of the season. Over their last eight games, the Colts have conceded an average of 21.4 points, resulting in a 6-2 record. This represents a significant improvement compared to their performance in the first eight games of the season when they allowed the highest average points per game in the NFL at 28.6. Furthermore, running back Jonathan Taylor has been in excellent form, scoring at least one touchdown in each of the last five games, making him the second-longest active streak in the league.
With insights from the SportsLine Projection Model, which is predicting a total of 47 points, the game may lean towards the under. The model also indicates that one side of the spread hits in well over 50% of simulations. To access the full analysis and picks from the model, visit SportsLine.
In summary, the Indianapolis Colts have a chance to secure a playoff spot and potentially win the AFC South title if they defeat the Houston Texans in their upcoming Week 18 NFL game. The Colts, who have not made a postseason appearance in the last three years, have a 9-7 record going into this crucial game against the also 9-7 Texans. The matchup promises an exciting contest, with both teams showcasing notable strengths and key players. To stay informed and make informed picks for the Colts vs. Texans game, the SportsLine Projection Model provides accurate insights and predictions, helping bettors maximize their chances of success.