Early Blowout NFL 8*
(NFL) Houston vs. Atlanta,
Point Spread: 2.00 | -110.00 Houston (Away)
Result: Push
#453 ASA PLAY ON 8* Houston Texans +2 at Atlanta Falcons, Sunday at 1 PM ET - The Houston Texans have clearly been one of the bigger surprise stories this season with rookie QB Stroud playing above expectations. Stroud is 4th in total passing yards at 1,212 with 6 TD’s to zero INT’s. It’s not like he’s throwing short underneath passes either (Ridder) as he ranks 12th in intended air yards. We mention the Falcons QB Ridder who is really struggling with Atlanta’s offense and has a QBR of 29.2 which ranks 31st in the NFL. Ridder has just 744 passing yards with 3 TD’s to 3 INT’s. Atlanta has produced just 13 total points in their last 8 quarters and average just 15.5PPG on the season. In their last two games the Birds have averaged just 2.8 yards per play against the Lions and 5.0YPP last week against the Jaguars who allow 5.4 on the season. Atlanta is 28th in yards per point offensively and 26th in yards per play. The Falcons defense has some solid numbers including a pass defense that allows just 176PYPG but overall, this unit ranks 23rd in defensive DVOA. Houston is 5th in team total yards offensively this season, rank 16th in yards per point and 13th in yards per play. They are averaging 24PPG and coming off a game against a Steeler defense where they managed 451 total yards. In their last two games they have averaged 6.5YPP against the Jags and Steelers. Stroud and the Texans will have time to throw against this Falcons team as they rank 30th in sack percentage. Lastly, the Falcons are coming off a game overseas and that travel takes a toll on the entire roster. The wrong team is favored here. Bet the Texans.