Texans vs Bengals Odds - Texans can't tame Benson, Bengals
Many in the online sports betting industry figured Cincinnati could surprise, but they’ve won four of their first five and they would be perfect if not for a fluky ending against Denver. The Bengals host Houston this weekend, and while the Texans are fun to watch offensively, their inability to stop the run will be their downfall against a team with a rejuvenated ground game.
Texans vs Bengals Odds: Bengals -4.5 (Total: 45)
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Texans vs Bengals odds maker breakdown: The Storyline
The Texans (2-3) fell just short in a 28-21 loss to Arizona, coming back from a 21-0 halftime deficit, and they have one of the top offensive trios in the league. The Bengals (4-1) had yet another close call in a 17-14 win over Baltimore, and all of their games have been decided by a touchdown or less. Betting Edge: Bengals
Texans vs Bengals odds maker breakdown: Offense
With Matt Schaub at the helm, throwing to Andre Johnson and handing off to Steve Slaton, the Texans are 11th in the league in offense. Johnson could very well be the best receiver in the league with a frightening mix of speed, power and hands that were all on display against the Cardinals and their receiver, Larry Fitzgerald. However, they’ve gotten away from the running game a bit as they’re 30th in the league. Carson Palmer looks to be back to 100% after a couple seasons’ worth of injuries, and this has sparked Chad Ochocinco. But no one predicted Cedric Benson to be leading the league in rushing after five games, and he became the first back to run for over 100 yards against Baltimore in 40 games. Add in Chris Henry and Andre Caldwell, and the Bengals are scary good. Betting Edge: Draw
Texans vs Bengals odds maker breakdown: Defense
The Texans’ inability to stop the run is what is holding back their offshore sportsbook odds, as they’re 26th in the league in that category. A team could really control the clock against the Texans and keep their defense on the field, which in turns, keeps their weapons quiet. The Bengals still have a way to go in improving their 17th-ranked defense, but they seem to come up with the big play at the right time. Rey Mauluaga is looking to be the steal of the draft as the former USC star and second-round pick is fourth on the team in tackles, and he leads the way in forced fumbles and tackles for losses. Betting Edge: Cincinnati
Texans vs Bengals odds maker breakdown: Notable Injuries
Guard Mike Brisiel (foot) was instrumental in Houston’s run-blocking schemes, but he’s going to be out for a while for the Texans. Palmer (thumb) should be able to go after suffering a knock last week, while Roy Williams (forearm) and Tank Johnson (foot) should be ready as well. Johnson hasn’t played for two weeks. Betting Edge: Texans
Texans vs Bengals odds for total: Totals (45)
If this turns into a shootout, it plays right into the Texans’ hands, but if Cincinnati plays their cards right, they’ll keep the ball on the ground, which will keep the score low. Pick: UNDER 45
Texans vs Bengals betting breakdown: Outlook and Pick
The Texans routed the Bengals 35-6 at home last year for their first win in four tries against Cincinnati, and you can bet that hasn’t been forgotten. The Bengals were one of the top sleeper picks of the year, and they’ve flown out of the gate to prove it. The Texans can score points on anyone in the league, but they can’t stop the run, which puts Benson and the Bengals in the pole position. Benson racks up another 100-yard game to lead the way. STAN’S PICK: Bengals -4.5
For more of the best in-depth analysis in the sports betting industry, keep it locked to the Betting Edge at BetOnline.com. For more on the Texans vs Bengals matchup, check out our stats section. Stan Simmons is one of BetOnline.com's NFL experts.
