The Baltimore Ravens travel to face the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium in a key Christmas Day matchup. The game kicks off at 4:30 PM ET and features two playoff-bound teams. Baltimore is 10-5 and tied for first in the AFC North, while Houston is 9-6 and leading the AFC South. Both teams are looking to solidify their postseason positioning as the regular season nears its conclusion.
Baltimore dominated the Texans in their last meeting, winning 34-10 in January. The Texans, however, are facing challenges with key injuries to their receiving corps. This game could be pivotal in determining playoff seeding for both squads.
Ravens Preview – Riding High with Momentum
Baltimore enters the game after a convincing 34-17 win over Pittsburgh. Lamar Jackson continues his strong season, throwing three touchdown passes last week to bring his season total to a franchise-record 37. Jackson’s efficiency has been bolstered by the addition of Derrick Henry, who ran for 162 yards in the victory and is closing in on a potential 2,000-yard season.
The Ravens’ offense ranks first in total yards and is averaging 30.1 points per game, third in the league. Their rushing attack, led by Henry, averages 181.2 yards per game, second-best in the NFL. Baltimore’s defense is also strong, allowing just 21.8 points per game and ranking fourth in total yards allowed.
Baltimore has some injury concerns, with Nelson Agholor and Justice Hill ruled out. Wide receiver Zay Flowers and cornerback Tre’Davious White are questionable. Despite these setbacks, the Ravens’ balanced attack makes them a formidable opponent.
Texans Preview – Overcoming Key Injuries
Houston faces a tough test after losing key wide receiver Tank Dell for the season in last week’s 27-19 loss to Kansas City. With Stefon Diggs also out, C.J. Stroud will rely heavily on Nico Collins and newly acquired Diontae Johnson. Tight end Dalton Schultz and running back Joe Mixon will also be critical in the passing game.
Stroud has been a bright spot for Houston, but the Texans’ offense has taken a hit with injuries. They rank ninth in rushing yards allowed defensively, but their passing defense will be tested by Baltimore’s explosive attack. The Texans’ defensive line has been solid, led by Will Anderson and Mario Edwards.
Houston has a strong record at home this season at 5-2, but they’ll need a complete effort to keep pace with Baltimore. Injuries to Shaq Mason and Folorunso Fatukasi further complicate their challenge, particularly in protecting Stroud and defending the run.
Betting Prediction
The Ravens are favored by five points, with the total set at 47. Baltimore’s balanced offense and Houston’s injuries make the Ravens the clear favorite. However, Houston’s solid home record and Stroud’s ability to make big plays could keep it closer than expected.
- Pick: Ravens -5
- Predicted Score: Ravens 31, Texans 21
