NFL Week 2: Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans betting picks, preview

Yes, these are two of the worst teams in the NFL. Yes, both lost their opening games and yes, both have rookie starting quarterbacks. This game might be a car crash, but as bettors it might be hard to look away.

Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans Betting Trends and Odds 

Sunday, September 17, 2023 - 1 p.m. ET

Odds: Indianapolis -1.5, Over/under 40, Indianapolis -122 | Houston +102

This is not an elite game but it is an interesting one, especially with Houston being a home underdog, within their own division. I know the spread is small but I was surprised that the Colts are getting the edge here off of what we have seen from them and their rookie head coach and quarterback so far. Houston is in a similar spot, but the markets perceive enough of an advantage for them to be dogs even at home. 

Picks for Indianapolis vs. Houston

Houston ML (+102), Houston Over 19.5 Points (-112)

Taking the points gives a little more cushion, but to make bank over the season you have to make some "choices" sometimes. Houston was on the road last week and went toe to toe with a very good Baltimore team. They struggled getting the ball into the end zone, but rookie QB CJ Stroud had the offense looking very functional. He looks more ready than his rookie counterpart with the Colts (Anthony Richardson) and will have the benefit of being at home. Richardson is questionable with a knee so it might be veteran Gardner Minshew for the Colts. Either way, the Texans are the ML play unless you can get the full three points. 

This is such a low-profile game the movement could really go either way at this point. The majority of the money and the bets is on Indy right now so you can afford to wait.