Texans vs. Ravens: Spread, Line and Predictions for 2012 AFC Divisional Round

The Houston Texans hit the road to take on the Baltimore Ravens hoping to get revenge for their regular season loss to the AFC North champs. 

The AFC South champs, the Texans reached the playoffs for the first time, and last week they picked up the first playoff win in franchise history by beating the Cincinnati Bengals, 31-10. 

The Ravens finally get to host a playoff game for the first time in years, which along with having a first-round bye gives Baltimore the advantage.

Both teams have had great seasons, and they're looking to continue playing the game they love by putting together a Super Bowl run.

With that said, let's take a look at some specifics of this AFC divisional round showdown.  

When: Sunday, Jan. 15, at 1 p.m. ET 

Where: M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore

Watch: CBS

What's at Stake? 

The winner will advance to the AFC Championship Game, where they will face the winner of the New England Patriots vs. Denver Broncos matchup. 

This Baltimore team has a ton of pressure on it after winning the division and earning the first-round bye. The Ravens have choked in the postseason before, so all eyes will be on them to see if they can get over that hump. 

Few people believed in the Texans once they were down to their third-string QB, but the defense keeps them strong. The pressure isn't too high for them, but a win would certainly give them a great deal of confidence. 

Spread

According to vegasinsider.com, the Ravens are favored by 7.5 points. It was a close game in their first meeting, but Baltimore managed to pull away late to win 29-14. 

Despite being down to their third-string QB, the Texans will remain competitive in this game. Arian Foster and Andre Johnson will be difference-makers, keeping the game close and helping to prevent the Ravens from covering. 

Over/Under 

According to vegasinsider.com, the over/under is set at 35.5. It's an intriguing line, simply because this game could go either way. 

It's the No. 2 defense in the league against the No. 3, so it's expected to be a low-scoring game. However, the offensive stars on both teams will do enough to get this game to go over. 

Key Injuries 

*According to CBSSports.com

Houston

QB T.J. Yates (shoulder): Probable 

WR Andre Johnson (hamstring): Probable 

RB Arian Foster (knee): Probable 

TE Owen Daniels (knee): Questionable 

TE Joel Dreessen (knee): Probable 

Baltimore 

WR Anquan Boldin (knee): Probable 

K Billy Cundiff (calf): Questionable 

Keys to a Houston Win

Arian Foster and Andre Johnson must deliver in the clutch once again. Last week both players stepped up big time, which was the main reason Houston won the game. 

If the Texans want any shot at winning, those two must perform at a high level, especially Foster.

The talented running back was held to just 49 rushing yards in the first meeting between these two teams, and if Foster wants to advance to the next round, he has to play much better this time around. 

Keys to a Baltimore Win 

Joe Flacco cannot falter on the big stage. He's had the week off and gets to play at home, which should work well for him. 

If he makes mistakes, it allows Houston more opportunities to put points on the board, and that cannot happen. The Texans have a good defense, so Flacco will have to get good care of the ball, as well as make big throws in key moments. 

Ray Rice should have another solid game like he did the first time, helping the passing game by consistently running the ball well. This means it's up to Flacco to play smart and clutch. 

Prediction 

Ravens 21, Texans 17