Baltimore Ravens vs. Houston Texans: Betting Odds, Analysis, NFL Pick

The Baltimore Ravens hold the upper hand in the all-time series with the Houston Texans, winning seven of eight meetings straight up and going 5-3 against the spread. The 9-5 Ravens will be favorites on the road when they hit the field against the 7-7 Texans on Sunday in Houston.

Point Spread: Ravens opened as 3.5-point favorites; the total was 42 early in the week, according to sportsbooks monitored by Odds Shark. (Line updates and matchup report.)

Odds Shark Computer Pick: Ravens 29.8, Houston 25.9

Why the Ravens Can Cover the Spread

After dispatching Jacksonville last week 20-12, the Ravens are 4-1 SU and 3-2 ATS over their last five games. Baltimore outgained and outrushed the Jaguars, although it couldn't quite generate enough offense to cover as a two-touchdown favorite.

Nonetheless, at 9-5 the Ravens are just a half-game out of first place in the AFC North and would be the six seed in the AFC if the playoffs started today. Baltimore ranks 10th in total offense, fifth in rushing, 13th in total defense and third against the run.

Also, the Ravens beat the Texans last season 30-9, with help from a pair of defensive/special teams touchdowns.

Why the Texans Can Cover the Spread

The Texans had won three of their last four games both SU and ATS before falling last week at Indianapolis 17-10. Houston lost starting quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick to a broken leg in the second quarter and still only trailed the Colts 14-10 late into the game.

Indy kicked a field goal with two minutes to go to take the cover away from the Texans, who were getting seven points. Houston outrushed the Colts 137-110 and has now outrushed eight of its last 10 opponents. Also, while the Texans lost to the Ravens last season, they actually outgained Baltimore 264-236.

Smart Pick

Houston is down to its third-string quarterback, and while it hasn't quite been eliminated from playoff contention, its odds are mighty slim. Baltimore, meanwhile, is still shooting for a division title. And the Ravens are facing a more amenable point spread—playing on the road.

So the smart choice in this spot is Baltimore, giving the points.

Betting Trends

• The total has gone over in four of Baltimore's last five games on the road
• Houston is 3-10 SU in its last 13 games at home

All spread and odds data powered by Odds Shark. Follow us on Twitter for injury and line-movement updates.