Vikings vs Texans Odds - Flashy Texans offense will flex its muscles at home
The Vikings vs Texans odds deserve another name – “The Hype Bowl.” Each of these teams is generating lots of sportsbook buzz as fans expect major moves up the standings this season. Can Brett Favre shake off the rust or will the Matt Schaub show take over again?
Vikings vs Texans Odds: Texans -3
- WHAT: NFL betting
- WHEN: Monday, August 31 @ 8:00 p.m. ET
- WHERE: Reliant Stadium in Houston, TX
- PICK: Texans -3
Vikings vs Texans odds maker breakdown: Offense Because of Minnesota’s whirlwind of change this offseason, the Vikings’ offense hasn’t yet gelled. Wideouts like Bernard Berrian and Percy Harvin don’t have a sense of who is throwing to them, as Brett Favre looked extra rusty last week and some rumors even suggested that many Vikings preferred Tarvaris Jackson under center. Pun intended, Houston’s offense already looks like a well-oiled machine. Matt Schaub has been the picture of accuracy and looks ready for a Pro-Bowl season if he can stay healthy. Even in half a game, he can torch the so-so Viking secondary. Steve Slaton isn’t getting a huge preseason workload but Chris Brown has looked powerful around the goal line. You’re safe betting that the Texans will score, even against a stingy defense like Minnesota’s. Betting Edge: Texans
Vikings vs Texans odds maker breakdown: Defense While the Texans are still allowing a decent amount of points this season – and that will be a trend – they’re at least getting to the quarterback. Favre took some big shots in his debut last week and obviously has lost some mobility, so Mario Williams and company should get a few licks in when they’re on the field. While Minnesota’s defense may allow more points on Monday, it’s still the superior unit. Even if the Vikes don’t have both Williams monsters – Brad Childress rested Pat for the first two preseason games – they’re still excellent against the run. Jared Allen will also pressure Schaub, who isn’t the most fleet-footed quarterback out there. Betting Edge: Vikings
Vikings vs Texans odds maker breakdown: Special Teams Kris Brown is on his game for Houston this NFL betting preseason, already boasting a three-field-goal effort. He’ll be nice and comfy kicking at home. The Vikings have an X-factor in the return game with rookie Percy Harvin, who averaged 26.5 yards per return in his debut last week. Betting Edge: Even
Vikings vs Texans odds maker breakdown: Notable Injuries Pat Williams’ absence isn’t an injury but he’s still out of the lineup, so that’s a blow to Minny’s chances. Both Jared Allen and Bernard Berrian are nicked up and didn’t play last week but should return on Monday. The Texans won’t have starting corner Jacques Reeves (broken leg) but the Vikings’ pass attack isn’t deadly enough to exploit that hole. Betting Edge: Texans
Vikings vs Texans betting breakdown: Outlook and Pick If these teams met a month or two from now, the Viking offense could be a cohesive, potent unit. Right now, it still needs time to develop, so it won’t score enough to compete with Houston’s high-octane group. Bet on the Texans to win at home. STAN’S PICK: Texans -3 For more sports betting advice, keep reading the Betting Edge at BetOnline.com. For more on the Vikings vs Texans matchup, check out our stats section.
Stan Simmons first tasted football through the college game, but his football handicapping has strictly focused on the professional sport. Not many people devote as much time to the NFL as Simmons. For six days a week he works, labors and handicaps the sport, and on the seventh he rests as the games play out. Thoughts or questions? Email Comments@BetOnline.com.
