Texans vs Chiefs: Top Betting Picks, Props, and DFS Strategies for Sunday Night Football
The Kansas City Chiefs will host the Houston Texans in a pivotal Week 14 matchup on Sunday Night Football. Both teams are eyeing playoff berths, with the Texans entering the game on a four-game winning streak. Currently at 7-5, Houston is just one game behind the Jacksonville Jaguars and Indianapolis Colts in the AFC South playoff race, holding -150 odds to make the postseason. Conversely, the Chiefs, tied at 6-6, are +120 to reach the playoffs after being considered Super Bowl contenders earlier in the season.
Recent Matchup History
Last season, the Texans faced the Chiefs twice, once during the regular season and again in the divisional round, with Kansas City winning both encounters. Heading into this game, the Chiefs are favored by 3.5 points.
Key Betting Picks and Props
Experts have weighed in on several betting picks, prop bets, and daily fantasy sports (DFS) strategies for this matchup. Consider the following notable insights:
Team Totals and Player Props
- Texans Team Total: UNDER 19.5 (-120)
- Patrick Mahomes: OVER 0.5 interceptions (-102)
- C.J. Stroud: OVER 229.5 passing yards (-110)
- Jayden Higgins: OVER 3.5 receptions (+114)
The Texans’ offense has struggled in the red zone, making it hard for them to complete drives effectively. Against the Chiefs, who have a top-10 defense in points allowed at home, Houston may find it challenging to score.
Player Analysis
Mahomes, despite throwing seven interceptions this season, remains a formidable player. The Texans have an impressive defense that has forced 12 interceptions, ranked fourth in the league. Given recent injuries affecting the Chiefs’ offensive line, Mahomes may be pressured into making mistakes.
On the Texans’ side, C.J. Stroud has performed well, providing opportunities in the passing game. He has surpassed 229.5 passing yards in four of his last six games. His ability to capitalize on Kansas City’s defensive weaknesses will be crucial in this contest.
DFS Tips
In terms of daily fantasy plays, here are several recommendations:
- Nico Collins: Captain ($14,700) – A consistent target with a high volume in recent games.
- Travis Kelce: ($8,800) – A reliable scorer and a favorite target for Mahomes.
- Dalton Schultz: ($5,400) – A dependable option for Stroud, especially against the Chiefs’ pass rush.
- Rashee Rice: ($16,500) – A strong choice given his position and target share.
Betting Trends
Recent betting trends highlight some significant patterns:
- The Chiefs are 0-4 against the spread (ATS) in their last four games.
- They are 1-7 ATS against teams with winning records this season.
- The Texans have the highest under rate in the NFL, with unders hitting in 9 of their 12 games.
- Similarly, the unders have been prevalent in the Chiefs’ recent games, hitting 6 of their last 7.
This game promises high stakes as both teams seek crucial victories to bolster their playoff aspirations. Keep a close eye on player performances and team dynamics as you prepare for this exciting match on Sunday night.