Footnotes: Kansas City in Houston
ESPN takes its show to Reliant Stadium in Houston, where the Chiefs and Texans will meet. Kansas City is priced as a 6.5-point favorite and the published total is around 44.
Despite a triple-digit yardage advantage, the Chiefs finished on the short end of a 14-3 final at Buffalo last weekend. The setback left Kansas City 5-4 (SU & ATS) overall but just 2-3 (SU & ATS) when away from Arrowhead.
Meanwhile, Houston was given the unenviable task of playing the undefeated Colts at the RCA Dome last week. The Texans were outscored for 210 yards in a 31-17 loss, but stayed close enough to take the green as underdogs by 17.5 points.
The result dropped Houston to 1-8 (SU) overall, while improving their record against No. 1 to 4-5 (ATS) overall. In fact, it was the Texans’ third straight points win. However, “Houston, we have a problem” protecting the quarterback, as Carr has been sacked 46 times in nine games.
The Texans’ weak offense managed just 13.8 points and 215.9 yards per game. This has placed Houston second to last in the NFL in both total offense and passing offense, as well as 30th in points scored. And losing tackle Todd Wade in last weekend’s loss to the Colts won’t help matters.
So are the Chiefs automatic tonight? Hardly. Sure they are the superior team, but they are holding up a big points spread despite losing three in a row along the way.
Also, Houston’s record is a bit misleading due to a ridiculous schedule. The Texans have faced four teams with two losses or fewer (Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Seattle and Indianapolis twice!).
Good luck with your bets tonight!
