NFL Picks: Week 1 Ravens vs Texans

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On Sunday, September 10, 2023, at 1:00 pm ET, football enthusiasts will be gearing up for an exciting NFL matchup at the M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. As the new season unfolds, anticipation is rife, with fans eager to see how the Houston Texans and the Baltimore Ravens will commence their campaigns. With both teams coming off distinct seasons, the atmosphere at the stadium is expected to be electric, setting the stage for what promises to be a memorable encounter.

BUSR NFL Lines

Spread: Texans +10, Ravens -10 

Moneyline: Texans +375, Ravens -500 

Total: O 43.5 (-110), U 43.5 (-110) 

Texans looking for a new horizon

The previous season was a trying one for the Texans. Finishing with a dismal 3-13-1 overall record, they struggled particularly at home, unable to secure a single win with an 0-7-1 record. However, they found slightly better fortune on the road, holding a 3-6 record. The Texans’ offense seemed to lack firepower, averaging a mere 17 points per game. This was in contrast to their defense, which conceded an average of 24.7 points in each game. Their total offensive yardage wasn’t impressive either, standing at 283.5 yards per game, while defensively, they allowed an average of 379.5 yards. Key players like Davis Mills, Dameon Pierce, and Brandin Cooks did their best, leading in passing, rushing, and receiving yards, respectively. But it’s evident more synergy was needed.

The Ravens are playoff-bound

On the other side, the Ravens painted a more positive picture. They concluded the season with a 10-7 record, a marked contrast to the Texans. At home, the Ravens maintained a 5-3 record, and their road games weren’t far off at 5-4. Their offense was slightly more aggressive than the Texans, averaging 20.6 points per game. The defense also stood tall, limiting opponents to an average of 18.5 points. Furthermore, they managed an average offensive yardage of 338.8 per game, while the defense allowed a competitive 324.3 yards. Lamar Jackson, the versatile quarterback, spearheaded both the passing and rushing categories, with Mark Andrews being the go-to man for receiving.

Analysis

When it comes to predictions, BUSR NFL Odds lists the Ravens as a significant 10-point favorite for this clash. And it’s not hard to see why. Despite their commendable 10-7 record from the previous season, the Ravens faced challenges, particularly with injuries to star QB Lamar Jackson. However, Jackson is back in full form and has a renewed zeal, backed by a fresh contract. His drive will be further amplified by new offensive additions, like the renowned Odell Beckham Jr. The Texans, despite their efforts to revamp, still carry the weight of the previous season’s 3-13-1 performance. With a fledgling quarterback in CJ Stroud and a new head coach, they are expected to undergo growing pains. This game could be particularly challenging for them, especially with the Ravens’ formidable defense and a revamped offense raring to showcase its prowess. For those placing bets, it seems logical to back the Ravens to cover the spread.

Injuries coming into the game

Heading into the new season, both the Texans and Ravens grapple with a slew of injuries. The Texans’ roster sees several key players, including K. Green, T. Hairston, J. Matthews, and D. Scaife Jr., sidelined due to various injuries, with T. Howard’s participation in Week 1 hanging in the balance. On the Ravens’ side, K. Mitchell’s Week 1 appearance remains uncertain, and while star TE M. Andrews is probable, key defensive players like M. Humphrey and T. Bowser are indefinitely out. The injuries, undoubtedly, are set to influence the teams’ strategies and performance in their upcoming clash.