From every angle, Ravens equipped to cover spread
Not every team in the NFL postseason can lean on an elite quarterback. The Houston Texans’ hopes are riding on running back Arian Foster and a strong defense.
At first glance, it appears the Texans lack the firepower to run with the Ravens in today’s AFC playoff game at Baltimore. After further review, handicapper Scott Kellen sees enough evidence to support the Ravens to cover as 7½-point favorites.
Foster rushed for 153 yards and two touchdowns to help Houston blow out Cincinnati 31-10 in last week’s wild-card round. But Kellen (SixthSenseSports.com) said he expects Baltimore’s defense to slow Foster and stop the Texans in their tracks.
“The Texans played well last week. I had them and have been on them a number of times this season. Their strong defense, along with their solid rushing offense, gives bettors comfort in knowing they typically will get a consistent effort because Houston plays good fundamental football,” Kellen said. “But, coming off their first-ever playoff victory, this is going to be a very tough matchup for the Texans.”
The Ravens won the first meeting 29-14 on Oct. 16 by holding Foster to 49 yards on 15 carries and sacking quarterback Matt Schaub four times. With Schaub sidelined by injury, rookie T.J. Yates is calling the shots for Houston’s offense.
Joe Flacco might not be an elite quarterback, either, but Kellen said Baltimore qualifies in a 44-12 playoff situation that is based on its superior record.
“I get a line of Baltimore by 7½ points, including games Schaub played, so I think the line is fair to go along with the solid situation in the Ravens’ favor,” said Kellen, who is calling for Baltimore to win by 18 points.
“Yates has done a decent job since Schaub went down, but he will face a very tough Ravens defense that plays much better at home than on the road. The Ravens are playing their first home playoff game in five years, so I expect them to be focused and ready to play against an inexperienced rookie quarterback.”
Baltimore was tested at home this season and defeated Pittsburgh 35-7, Cincinnati 31-24 and San Francisco 16-6.
In the teams’ regular-season matchup, Kellen said, “Houston scored a touchdown after starting a drive on the Baltimore 17-yard line. The Ravens kicked five field goals and scored two touchdowns, with all but one drive starting in their own territory.”
Contact reporter Matt Youmans at myoumans@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2907.
