Join Now! Sign In

Week 9 TNF: Texans-Jets Preview, Props & Prediction

by

Jets Struggling to Find Offensive Consistency

The New York Jets (2-6) come into Week 9 riding a five-game losing streak, during which they’ve averaged only 16.6 points per game. Despite often finding themselves in scoring positions, the Jets have struggled to finish drives, settling for field goal attempts or failing to make critical plays. Veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers has thrown 12 touchdown passes against seven interceptions this season, but his leadership hasn’t been enough to lift a sputtering offense ranked 25th in scoring (18.8 points per game) and 24th in total offense.

Their latest setback came in heartbreaking fashion, with a 25-22 loss to the New England Patriots. The Jets’ defense held strong until the final moments, only for the Patriots to march down the field for a game-winning touchdown drive with 22 seconds left. “We’ve got to score touchdowns,” Rodgers said, emphasizing the team’s inability to capitalize on red-zone opportunities.

Coaching Turmoil: The Jets’ struggles led to the firing of head coach Robert Saleh after a 2-3 start. Interim coach Jeff Ulbrich, who also serves as the team’s defensive coordinator, has yet to find success, with the team going 0-3 under his leadership.

Boost your game with our NFL Betting Tips & Tricks for winning strategies this season!

Key Injuries for the Jets

The Jets’ defense, already facing challenges, will be without five-time Pro Bowl linebacker C.J. Mosley (neck) for the second consecutive game. Additionally, receiver Allen Lazard (chest), guard Alijah Vera-Tucker (ankle), and multiple members of the secondary, including safeties Tony Adams (hamstring) and Ashtyn Davis (concussion), have been ruled out. With kicker Greg Zuerlein placed on injured reserve, the Jets signed Riley Patterson and Spencer Shrader, one of whom will handle the kicking duties.

Texans Adjusting to New Challenges

The Houston Texans (6-2) are coming off a short week after a 104-89 loss to the Golden State Warriors on the road. They have emerged as one of the AFC’s top teams, winning four of their last five games. However, their wide receiver depth has taken a major hit. With Stefon Diggs out for the season and Nico Collins recovering from a hamstring injury, the Texans will rely heavily on rookie Tank Dell. Dell has shown promise, recording 24 receptions on 38 targets so far and is expected to play a more prominent role.

Quarterback C.J. Stroud continues to impress, throwing 11 touchdown passes against only four interceptions. Stroud acknowledged the importance of the upcoming stretch: “It’s just exciting times. It’s coming into the two hardest months of ball (in) November and December.”

Injury Concerns for the Texans

Houston’s injury list is significant, with running back Dameon Pierce (groin), offensive lineman Jarrett Patterson (concussion), linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair (knee), and safety Jimmie Ward (groin) ruled out. Despite these setbacks, head coach DeMeco Ryans remains focused on the depth and adaptability of his roster.

Despite their struggles, the Jets are 2.0-point favorites, likely influenced by their home-field advantage. Betting action has leaned slightly towards the Texans, with 55% of the money backing Houston on the spread at BetRivers. The Over/Under line at DraftKings is set at 42.5 points, while BetRivers lists it at 42.0. Interestingly, six of Houston’s last seven games have gone under the total, reflecting their solid defensive play.

Prop Bets to Watch

  • Tank Dell Over 4.5 Receptions: Dell’s role as Houston’s top receiver makes this a popular prop at DraftKings (-125). Another interesting prop is Xavier Hutchinson to have at least 25 receiving yards (+120).
  • Davante Adams Anytime Touchdown (+135 at BetRivers): While running back Joe Mixon has received more money on touchdown props, Adams offers a better payout opportunity.

Key Matchup: Jets Offense vs. Texans Defense

Houston boasts the NFL’s second-ranked total defense and is third in the league with 27.0 sacks. They’ll aim to capitalize on New York’s offensive struggles and force Rodgers into hurried decisions. For the Jets, containing Houston’s Joe Mixon will be a priority, as Mixon has delivered three consecutive 100-yard rushing games.

Prediction

The Jets’ offensive issues, compounded by injuries and coaching instability, make them a challenging team to back confidently. Meanwhile, the Texans, despite their own injuries, are better balanced and have a proven defense. Houston’s ability to control the line of scrimmage and make timely plays on both sides of the ball gives them an edge in this matchup.

Prediction: Texans 23, Jets 20

Maximize your payouts with our Parlay Betting Guide: Strategy and Tips!

This Thursday night game will likely come down to defensive stops and which team can generate enough explosive plays. All eyes will be on Rodgers and Stroud as they lead their teams in a pivotal Week 9 showdown.