NFL – FREE PLAY: Texans (473) vs. Ravens (474)

The Baltimore Ravens have dominated the Houston Texans in recent history, winning the last six meetings and covering in five straight. That stretch includes a 34-10 playoff victory on January 20, 2024.

Lamar Jackson’s absence is significant, but the Texans’ offense has not inspired much confidence. They are averaging only 9.5 points per game on the road this season and rank 30th in first downs. Cooper Rush, a veteran who played in 12 games for the Dallas Cowboys last season and defeated Houston, now steps in. He carries an 83.6 career quarterback rating with 20 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. While he is not Lamar Jackson, he is capable of keeping the Ravens competitive, especially with Derrick Henry in the backfield and a solid group of receivers led by Zay Flowers.

I expect Baltimore to rally around Rush against a Texans team that remains difficult to trust in this spot. Losing a two-time MVP is never easy, but I still like the Ravens to take care of business.