Colts vs. Texans: Staff picks and predictions for Week…

Colts vs. Texans: Staff picks and predictions for Week 2

The Indianapolis Colts (0-1) are just about set to visit the Houston Texans (0-1) for a Week 2 matchup at NRG Stadium.

As both teams are coming off season-opening losses, they are looking to get into the win column for the first time this week. Both teams are entering this game with rookie quarterbacks and new coaching staffs on each side, which makes this contest wildly unpredictable.

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The sportsbooks have the Colts sitting as one-point road underdogs, and the experts around the league also are siding slightly with the visiting team in this one.

Here’s how the Colts Wire staff sees this Week 2 matchup shaking out:

Kevin Hickey: Colts 20, Texans 17

A battle between Anthony Richardson and C.J. Stroud should be a fun one. Both rookies had their moments during their respective debuts. Richardson scored twice and didn’t look overwhelmed in the slightest while Stroud made some impressive throws despite being under duress the entire time.

This outcome of this game likely comes down to the team that makes the fewest mistakes. The Texans are dealing with some pretty serious injuries to their starting lineup while the Colts are expected to see the return of running back Zack Moss.

In the end, the Colts do enough to pull out a road victory. DeForest Buckner and Kwity Paye lead the way defensively while the offense does enough to put Matt Gay in a position to win the game late in the fourth quarter.

Follow Kevin on Twitter (@KevinHickey11)

Cody Manning: Colts 24, Texans 21

The Indianapolis Colts offense looks more explosive in the second outing under Shane Steichen. Zack Moss provides a boost to the rushing attack to help open up the passing attack. Anthony Richardson takes advantage of the Houston Texans defense without their starting safeties with deep shots to Alec Pierce throughout the game.

The Indy defensive front dominates in the trenches against a patchworked offensive line. They bottle up Dameon Pierce and get after C.J. Stroud often. Houston’s offense does end up still finding a few drives where Stroud leads a few touchdown drives but it isn’t enough for the win.

Follow Cody on Twitter (@CodyTalksNFL)

Meghan Hall: Texans 17, Colts 14

I think this is about as good of a matchup as it gets. It’s a division rival and two top-5 picks. I think this is going to be a really tight, but low-scoring game – probably a little ugly. (The division matchups always are.) Without a rushing attack, I just am not sure how long the Colts can be successful. I don’t like it, but I’m going with the Texans here and hoping the Colts prove me wrong.

Follow Meghan on Twitter (@ItsMeghanLHall)

Cody Felger: Colts 24, Texans 16

I was thoroughly impressed by the way the Colts were able to hang with Jacksonville up until the end. While Houston certainly has some young pieces, I ultimately think their inability to attack this Colts defense vertically will be their undoing.

Follow Cody on Twitter (@CPFelger55)