Houston Texans at New England Patriots – MNF Week 14
Houston Texans at New England Patriots -5.5 OvUn 52.5
Monday Night Football December 10, 2012 TV: 8:30 EST ESPN
The Texans face the Patriots on Monday Night with the best record in the AFC at 11-1, and with four games left still to play have already set a franchise record for wins in the regular season. Last week, they dispatched Tennessee 24-10 in an away win. QB Matt Schaub had two touchdown passes in the victory.
Houston has one of the top defenses in the NFL, but the unit has been hit with a rash of injuries. Cornerback Brice McCain is out and All Pro corner Jonathan Joseph is day to day after missing the last three games. Linebacker Brooks Reed is still out with a groin pull and Bradie James may return from a one game absence.
New England is 9-3 and at the top of the AFC East with a considerable lead against the 2nd place Jets at 6-7. Last week, the Patriots offense was not quite as explosive as they have been in weeks past. Still, they beat Miami 23-16 to clinch the division title.
The powerful Pats’ offense is still learning to live without Rob Gronkowksi who could be out the rest of the season with a knee injury. Julian Edelman is also sidelined, forcing New England to add former wide out Donte Stallworth for depth.
The Line
The game opened at NE -3 with the consensus line now moving to -5.5 everywhere. The total is 52.5, a number that moved just slightly off the opening total of 52.
The Play
This game is a little harder now that the line has moved to 5.5 but we’re still going with the Patriots. Houston is a great team but the Patriots are nearly unstoppable at home as of late. Also, Houston’s play action and strong run game might not be quit as effective against a Patriots defense that is excellent against the run. Matt Schuab has been great lately, but we still think he’s just a slightly above average quarterback. He will have a hard time matching Brady, who will be facing a banged up Texans defense. We’ll lay the points with at home.
Patriots -5.5 at www.Topbet.eu
About the author
Eric Roberts
Sports Journalist
Eric has been a sports journalist for over 20 years and has travelled the world covering top sporting events for a number of publications. He also has a passion for betting and uses his in-depth knowledge of the sports world to pinpoint outstanding odds and value betting opportunities.
Related Articles
Best Betting Sites
We have trawled the web and found the best betting sites in your country. If you’re looking to get the best odds, offers & beat the bookies, look no further.
Free Betting Tips
At SBO.net we employ a team of world-class tipsters whose insight can give you a much-needed edge over the bookies. Take a look at our latest free tips here.
Winning at Sports Betting
Sports betting is about having fun but everyone wants to win too! Our experts will guide you through the best strategies to find value and beat the bookie.
Cricket Betting Sites 2023
Cricket is a truly global sport with huge numbers of people watching and betting on matches. Find the best sites for betting on cricket with our guide.